The VC men's water polo team split its first pair of games at the Cuesta Tournament Friday in San Luis Obispo. Ventura defeated Cabrillo College 18-9 in the opener Friday morning before falling to Sierra College 17-10 in the nightcap. Ryan Reardon went off for 11 goals in the two matches with five drawn exclusions. Tanner Islander had four scores and four assists and Justin Bouse scored four times for the Pirates (8-12).
Ventura 18, Cabrillo 9
The Pirates took a commanding 6-2 lead in the first quarter behind four goals by Reardon. VC scored seven more goals in the second period to put the match out of reach.
Reardon led with seven goals, one assist and two drawn exclusions while Islander had three scores and four assists. Kyle Goodrich also scored three goals with an assist and Jarett Baldwin had three scores with a helper and one steal.
Ventura 10, Sierra 17
VC came back in the afternoon with a 17-10 setback against Sierra College. The Wolverines built a quick 6-0 lead after one period and never looked back against Ventura.
Reardon led the Pirate offense once again with four goals and three drawn exclusions. Justin Bouse found the net three times while Cole Morter recorded a pair of scores. Derek Gamberutti had five saves in the cage.
The Pirates conclude play at the Cuesta Tournament with a pair of matches on Saturday Oct. 14 against Merced and Orange Coast. They resume Western State Conference playon Wednesday Oct. 18 at LA Valley.