Corona del Mar Capitalizes

Corona del Mar took seven fewer shots than Long Beach Wilson, but the Sea Kings capitalized more often in a 9-4 nonleague boys’ water polo victory Tuesday night at Belmont Plaza Pool in Long Beach.

“We played total team defense,” said Artie Dorr, who scored three goals to lead Corona del Mar. “If a guy gets beaten on a drive, there’s always somebody there to help him out.”

Corona del Mar led, 4-1, at halftime and finished with 16 shots.

Wilson attempted 23 shots and made only one of 10 in the first half.

Wilson cut the lead to 5-3 early in the third quarter on a goal by Clint Wilson.

But Marcello Pantuliano scored a man-advantage goal two possessions later.

It was one of the few extra-man opportunities for both teams.

Corona del Mar converted only one of three man-advantage opportunities, Wilson could not convert its two chances.

“The referees were letting us get a little physical out there,” said Dorr, who scored two fourth-quarter goals to clinch the victory.

Bobby Messenger, Michael March and Pantuliano scored two goals each for the Sea Kings.

Jay Girardi scored three goals for Wilson.