ERIE, Pennsylvania – In order to get back in the pool after a short hiatus, the Salem men’s water polo team headed up to Erie this weekend for the first of two WWPA conference weekends. The Tigers cruised through the competition on their way to 3 solid conference wins. Each contest played out as follows:
Salem 23, McKendree 15
In Game 1, Salem squared off with the McKendree Bearcats. The Tigers had to shake some rust off, and trailed after the first quarter. However, the Tigers battled back with a big second period, and took control of the game. From there, they were simply too much for the Bearcats, and they pushed through towards the 23-15 victory. Offensively, Salem was led by Marko Zivojinovic, who added 8 goals and 4 assists to the Tiger’s efforts. Defensively, goalkeeper Duarte Costa batted down 10 shots from the Bearcats.
Salem 29, Mercyhurst 13
For Game 2, Salem had their strongest offensive performance of the weekend. The Tigers seemingly scored at will, and dominated over the Lakers all day long. Cutino Award nominee Nikola Krstonosic had a banner performance with 12 goals and 9 assists. The 12 goals in a game ties a school record, and the 9 assists in the game sets a new school record. Marko Zivojinovic also had 10 goals and 4 assists. Goalkeepers Duarte Costa and Goncalo Silva combined for 16 saves.
Salem 20, Gannon 13
For the final game of the weekend, the Tigers took control of the contest with two big scoring quarters in the first half. However, Gannon kept things close. Despite the Gannon rally, the Salem defense held firm, and the Tigers pulled away with the 20-13 win. On the stats sheet, Marko Zivojinovic had 10 goals and 4 assists to lead Salem. In goal, Duarte Costa added 11 more saves to his already impressive season.
With three big wins this weekend, Salem will be primed to return to the home waters of the Aquatic Center at Mylan Park, where they will play host to these same 3 opponents on November 4th and 5th in another weekend of WWPA competition.
