Westminster Continues to Improve

Although only a month into the season, at different times during the game Oct. 6, Westminster looked patient, confident and capable in the water. The Martlets opened the scoring with a nice offensive possession, moving the ball up the wing and finding Rich Mugler ‘22 in a good position to separate and take a shot that found the back of the net. Owen Murphy ‘22 followed shortly after with another goal, putting Westminster up 2-0 early in the first quarter. Wilbraham & Monson would score the next three goals, climbing into the lead 3-2 at the end of the first quarter. Despite growing a little frantic with the ball and squandering possessions, this was the best quarter of the season for Westminster. The four lane pool at Wilbraham & Monson caught the Martlets by surprise, and spatially they never really found footing. As the game wore on, Westminster struggled to maintain composure with the ball and advance effectively into the offensive half court. At times the ball seemed like a hot potato, and passes landed in places where the opponent was able to steal it easily. Hunter Hoogkamp ‘21 tallied two nice goals, beating the goalie with well-placed shots from tough angles. Murphy added another late in the third to make the game 5-10 with Wilbraham in the lead. Despite the score and some frustration with ball control, the game was played well. Wilbraham was able to rely on its size and strength to keep any chance at a comeback impossible. Both teams played fair, and competed hard. Lots to build upon as Westminster looks to host its first water polo match against Deerfield on Wednesday.