Ventura College men's water polo traveled to Arroyo Grande Friday to play in the Cuesta Tournament. Taking on Merced College in their opener, the Pirates (11-9, 1-1) picked up a one-goal win, 14-13, before taking down Sierra College 13-10 in the nightcap. Daniel Amorim netted nine total goals on the day for the Pirates, while Trevor Edwards added six goals.
Ventura, 14 Merced 13
In the opener, the Pirates took an 8-6 advantage at the half. Amorim netted three goals with Edwards and Jack Pickett putting two goals each in the back of the net. Ahead by two goals VC fended off the comeback attempt from the Blue Devils with six goals in the second half. Pickett scored his third of the game. The Pirates defense collected 12 steals as a team and drew five ejections. Amorim was the Pirates star of the game adding three steals, three assists and two drawn ejections. In goal J'son Ruiz picked up 10 saves to hold on for a one-goal victory.
Ventura 13, Sierra 10
Returning to the pool for an afternoon game, VC looked to sweep the day. After a tight first half the two teams were locked in up 5-5 at intermission. Amorim and Edwards both scored two goals in the first half, with Nathan Sardoni adding one goal for the Pirates. In the second half the Ventura offensive duo of Edwards and Amorim continued to push the attack with Amorim netting three goals and Edwards one. The Pirates pushed through for eight goals and a 13-10 victory. Keaton Hess picked up three steals and an assist in the game. Alejandro Astudillo had three assists and two steals in the VC victory. Ruiz picked up 10 more saves for the Pirates defense.
The Pirates will play two more games in San Luis Obispo on Saturday Oct. 17 to conclude the Cuesta Tournament. They begin with a 9:10 am game versus Santa Rosa College and play their tournament finale at 2:35 pm against Ohlone College.