SAN DIEGO, Calif. — The No. 16-ranked University of Michigan water polo team wrapped up the Aztec Invitational on a high note by securing a 9-7 victory over No. 8 Harvard University at No. 20 San Diego State University’s Aztec Aquaplex.
Michigan (9-7) showcased a balanced offensive attack, with seven different Wolverines finding the back of the net. Sophia Panossian and Ari Karampetsou led the way, each netting two goals, with Panossian’s second serving as the late-game dagger that sealed the win.
Karampetsou started the Wolverines’ scoring, sneaking a quick goal past Harvard’s (17-3) goaltender for a 1-0 lead. The Crimson responded, but Lulu Hirschfield answered to restore Michigan’s advantage. In the final minute of the opening quarter, Harvard found an equalizer, sending the game into the second frame tied at two-all.
Harvard opened the second quarter with a go-ahead goal, but Karampetsou capitalized on a penalty shot to even the score. Moments later, Ashley O’Neill added her name to the scoresheet, giving the Wolverines a 4-3 lead at halftime.
The Maize and Blue defense took over in the third quarter by holding Harvard scoreless behind a stellar performance from goaltender Sophia Bunnell. Meanwhile, the Wolverines’ offense erupted, as Brooke Ingram, Kasey Umlauf, Panossian and Tilly Waugh each tallied goals to push the lead to 8-3 entering the final frame.
Harvard mounted a late comeback with four unanswered goals in the fourth quarter, but Panossian delivered with two minutes remaining, securing the 9-7 victory for the Maize and Blue.
Release courtesy University of Michigan Athletics Communications
