Loyola Defense All Wet as Harvard-Westlake Scores 19

The matchup certainly sounded like a glorious battle, steeped in tradition, when discussed poolside before Tuesday’s water polo game between Loyola and Harvard-Westlake.

“For two private schools in L.A., it’s like Italy-Spain, Russia-USA or UCLA-USC,” Harvard-Westlake Coach Richard Corso said.

The visiting Wolverines beat Loyola, 19-6, in the Mission League opener for both teams. Harvard-Westlake (6-0) was clearly in a different class from Loyola (2-5).

Loyola played timidly and appeared overwhelmed early in the game. The Wolverines jumped to a 6-0 lead in the opening quarter and were never threatened.

Dave Van Wagner scored Loyola’s first goal with 10 seconds remaining in the first quarter, and he added two goals in the second, making the halftime score 8-3.

The Cubs drew to within 10-6 in the third quarter, but the Wolverines scored the final nine goals, including a length-of-the-pool lob shot by backup goalie Bepe Khayatian.