Redshirt freshman Kevin Peat wants to leave UC Davis as the school’s all-time saves leader.
After Saturday’s impressive showing against No. 16 Santa Clara, he’s that much closer to reaching his goal.
Peat had 14 saves and the Aggies jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the second quarter en route to a 6-5 road win over the Broncos.
The victory moves No. 11 UC Davis to 8-4 in Western Water Polo Association play, virtually assuring it the No. 3 seed in the conference championship ahead of Santa Clara.
“I’m glad this game was on the road,” head coach Steve Doten said. “I was happy to have all these home games, but to get on the road and play in someone else’s pool was good to get us ready for conference.”
The road game was UC Davis‘ first since it visited Santa Clara on Sept. 28 – a period of 10 consecutive home games.
Six different Aggies scored a goal, including seniors Adam Bennett and Adam Lindsay.
Santa Clara converted four goals on 6-on-5 chances, while UC Davis netted just two goals given seven man-up opportunities.
“Sometimes I think the team can get frantic,” Doten said. “I want the intensity and the hustle, but I want them to control the tempo of the game. We need to continue keeping our mistakes down, limit the turnovers and counterattacks.
“This game was a good test for us. I know our guys are confident. They expect to win, but they’re not overconfident.… It was great prep for next weekend.“
The WWPA Championship begins Friday at Claremont McKenna. Loyola Marymount and UC San Diego should claim the No. 1 and No. 2 seeds, respectively.
ADAM LOBERSTEIN can be reached at sports@theaggie.org.
