LOS ANGELES — Carly Zurcher scored two goals, had an assist and a steal.

But the Occidental women's water polo team fell too far behind early in the first half in a 12-6 loss to Pomona-Pitzer at Taylor Pool on Thursday.

Pomona-Pitzer put away two shots within the first 2 minutes, 15 seconds, knocking the Tigers on their heels. The Sagehens then added to their early lead, going up 4-0 by the end of the first quarter, and up 7-1 by halftime.

The Tigers played the Sagehens to an even 5-5 in the second half, primarily because of a shift in their man-up efficiency. After going just 1 for 10 on 6-on-5s in the first half, Oxy was a perfect 4 for 4 in the second.

"One of our big focuses this week was to execute at a higher percentage on 6-on-5," Oxy head coach Chris Lee said. "Going 4 for 4 was a big key to a strong second half."

Lizzy Kosin was effective as a distributor and a defender, dishing out three assists, drawing four exclusions, blocking two shots and grabbing one steal for the Tigers.

"She does all the little things that tie the offense and the defense together," Lee said. "Even when she doesn't score she impacts the game in so many ways. That's what you want from a senior."

Anna De Groot made eight saves in the net for the Tigers, including one on a penalty shot. She also totaled three steals.

Amanda Akiyama was also solid for Oxy, grabbing two steals, scoring one goal and drawing two exclusions.

Season Impact: Oxy falls to 2-8 overall and 0-2 in SCIAC play.

Pomona-Pitzer goes to 5-8 and 1-0.

Next Game: The Tigers are back in action at Chapman on March 30 at 4 p.m.