University Will Face Corona del Mar in Final

Ted Peck and the University boys’ water polo team exceeded their expectations Saturday, defeating Servite, 9-8, in the Southern Section Division II semifinals at the Los Alamitos Armed Forces Reserve Center.

The third-seeded Trojans will play Pacific Coast League rival and top-seeded Corona del Mar in the final at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at Belmont Plaza in Long Beach.

“I knew we’d make it to the semifinals,” Peck said. “But I wasn’t too sure after that. This is the biggest win ever for me at University. And it was a total team effort. Everyone played together today.”

While Peck, the Trojans’ powerful two-meter man, was being double- and triple-teamed, the rest of the squad picked up the slack. Nicholas Chukiat and Brian Chen each scored three goals. Jon Chau continued his dominance in goal with 13 saves.

“Jon has been playing out of his mind,” University Coach Jon Pendleton said. “The last two games he has played like an All-CIF goalie.”

In the other Division II semifinal:

Corona del Mar 11, Laguna Beach 4--There was little doubt the defending champion Sea Kings (22-5) would advance to the section final again. With a talented offense and a dominating defense led by Garrett Bowlus, Corona del Mar ended the Artists’ playoff run.

The Sea Kings were balanced on offense. Bowlus led with three goals, Mike March, Artie Dorr and Bobby Messenger each had two and Chris Street and Marcello Pantuli had one apiece.

“Everyone expected us to win it all again this year,” said Messenger, who had three assists, two blocks and a steal. “But we didn’t think we would do it. At least that is the way we tried to think. We just want to stay focused and not get ahead of ourselves.”

In Division VI:

Rowland Heights Rowland 12, Valencia 3--Valencia did not have enough firepower to match Rowland as the Tigers fell in a semifinal. Valencia finishes the season 19-8.