Los Angeles, California – The No. 9 Loyalty Marymount University women's water polo team demonstrated their dominance with a commanding performance in their final non-conference games before the Golden Coast Conference season. The Lions swept two opponents, defeating Chapman University 21-6 and Cal State Fullerton 13-10 at the Burns Aquatic Center on Saturday, February 14, 2026. This victory marks a significant milestone for the team, extending their winning streak to nine consecutive victories. The strong showing signals the team's readiness for the upcoming conference competition.
The first game against Chapman University set the tone for the entire tournament, with LMU establishing an early lead within the first three minutes. Cianne Benjamin and Ruby Meier scored the first two goals, putting the Lions ahead 2-0. Despite Chapman's efforts to close the gap, LMU maintained their lead through strategic play and effective execution. By the end of the first quarter, the Lions had a 5-3 advantage over the Panthers.
The second game against Cal State Fullerton saw a more balanced contest. The Titans initially outscored the Lions 12-9 in the first half, but LMU rallied back to secure a 13-10 victory. This performance highlights the team's resilience and ability to adapt to changing game dynamics. The win against Fullerton was crucial as it marked the team's ninth consecutive victory, a significant achievement for the program.
Key players like Payton Schrier and Cila David contributed significantly to the Lions' success, adding to their strong offensive output. Their ability to score on back-to-back possessions demonstrated exceptional teamwork and offensive coordination. The team's depth in scoring and strategic depth provided a solid foundation for their continued success.
The upcoming Golden Coast Conference play will be a critical test for the Lions. With this victory, they are well-positioned to compete effectively in the conference, having already established a strong defensive and offensive structure. The team's ability to maintain consistency across multiple opponents will be vital as they transition into the competitive conference season.
The win against Chapman University, with a 21-6 score, highlighted the Lions' superior offensive capabilities. Their ability to control the pace of the game from the outset was a key factor in securing the win. This performance also underscores the team's ability to handle high-stakes games, a critical skill for a team preparing for conference play.
The Lions' performance in this mini-tournament has been a significant indicator of their readiness for the upcoming Golden Coast Conference. The team's ability to consistently outperform opponents has been a key factor in their success, and this victory provides a strong foundation for the upcoming conference season.
