LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Occidental College had a mixed weekend at the Claremont Convergence held at De Mandel Aquatics Center, featuring a thrilling victory and several challenging losses against various opponents.

In their first match, Occidental edged past Carthage College with a 15-14 victory. The Tigers' offense was bolstered by their three power-play goals, while the opposition managed to net seven goals on power plays. Occidental took an early lead with Emma Wilderman's goal, assisted by Victoria Duncan, and extended it to 3-1 by the end of the first quarter. Isabella Wilde was a standout, scoring three goals, including one that pushed the lead to 6-3. 

Despite the Firebirds' efforts, including a goal from Yamila Areizaga, Occidental maintained a steady lead. The third quarter saw a back-and-forth exchange, highlighted by Wilde's fourth goal and Kaylin Machuca's response, but the Tigers maintained a 12-10 edge. 

The Firebirds made a late push in the final quarter, with Kiera Crawley scoring twice, yet Occidental secured a narrow 15-14 victory. Wilde led the team with five goals on seven attempts. Duncan contributed significantly with three goals, two assists, and four steals while also winning two sprints. 

Mia Colabianchi added to the offensive effort with one goal and two assists, alongside a steal and a block. In goal, Mia Bananis made seven saves and provided two assists, playing a key role in both defense and distribution.

However, the momentum shifted in their subsequent match, where Occidental fell to California State University, Northridge (CSUN) with a decisive 21-3 loss. The Tigers managed to score one goal in each of the final three quarters but could not overcome the Matadors' offensive output. Victoria Duncan was a standout on defense, recording four steals in the game. Mia Colabianchi contributed with one goal and won two sprints, while Estella Gray added a goal and drew two exclusions. In goal, Mia Bananis made four saves, helping to keep CSUN at bay.

The following day, Occidental faced Augustana College and suffered a 12-8 defeat. 

Augustana started strong with Emma Blezien scoring the first goal, and Hailey Sherman extending the lead. The Tigers responded with a goal from Emma Merrill, but Augustana quickly regained momentum, ending the first quarter at 4-1. The Vikings continued to dominate in the second quarter, bringing the score to 6-1 before Occidental scored twice late in the period to make it 7-3 at halftime. In the third quarter, Isabella Wilde scored twice for Occidental, but Augustana maintained their lead. The final quarter saw Augustana seal their victory, while Occidental added another goal from Wilde, ending the game with a 12-8 loss. 

Wilde led the scoring efforts with four goals on 11 shots. Rachel Khavinson contributed defensively, recording three steals and adding a goal with an assist. Sophie Cross facilitated the offense with two assists and a steal, while Mia Bananis made five saves.

Concluding their weekend, Occidental faced Azusa Pacific and suffered a tough 20-0 loss, marking the first time this season the Tigers did not score in a game. APU dominated from start to finish, showcasing a strong performance against Occidental. Rachel Khavinson led the defensive effort with three steals, while Charlee Spence made six saves in goal. Isabella Wilde remained active offensively, taking six shots, the most on the team, while Sophie Cross had four shots and drew one exclusion, playing a vital role in maintaining pressure on the opposing defense. 

The Tigers are back in action at home against Bucknell and Washington & Jefferson on Tuesday, March 10 at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Read Full Article