Top-Ranked Wilson Puts Away Newport Harbor--Again

In what’s starting to look like a tired rerun, Newport Harbor again was defeated by Long Beach Wilson in boys’ water polo Saturday.

The Sailors started off determined to change the ending this time, but that familiar storyline kicked in during the second quarter as the Bruins went on to win, 11-5, in the title match of the Southern California Invitational at the Heritage Park Aquatic Complex in Irvine.

This was the third time these teams have played each other this season. And unlike the last time they met--Wilson edged Newport Harbor, 10-9, at the South Coast tournament two weeks ago--the Bruins were at full strength with Tony Azevedo leading his team.

“Tony can make things happen,” Wilson Coach Ricardo Azevedo said. “Like how a team plays you on defense. He’s a factor in the water and in the strategy.”

Azevedo, a junior, was named the meet’s most valuable player.

Double, and even triple teamed, Azevedo nevertheless was able to score four goals and make some spectacular passes and steals. He assisted on three goals.

While Newport Harbor desperately tried to keep Azevedo in check, it freed Wilson’s other players, including Albert Garcia, who took advantage.

Garcia, also a junior, scored three goals and had three steals.

The game started out promising for the Sailors as Kevin Becker scored to tie it, 1-1, in the first quarter. Newport Harbor followed with a goal about a minute later, taking a 2-1 lead. Azevedo tied the score again on a penalty shot with 15 seconds left in the first quarter.

But that’s when things changed dramatically as the Bruins scored four goals in the second quarter and held Newport Harbor to one.

Senior Gary Conwell scored three goals for the Sailors.

Wilson goalie Jaison Robinson again had a great game, making seven saves. However, Robinson made a bigger impact with his passing, which enabled Wilson teammates to set up offensive plays. Robinson was named goalie of the meet.

In the third-place game:

San Clemente 12, Coronado 11 (0T)--The Tritons shut out Coronado the last three minutes of overtime to win.

Cheyne Maule scored four goals for San Clemente.