MAWPC Final Bound: #3/4 Water Polo Team Defeats Wagner in Thrilling Match
Fordham defeated Wagner 19-11 in the MAWPC Championship semifinals on November 23, 2024. The match took place at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
Fordham started the game behind, with Wagner leading 3-1 in the first quarter. Barnabas Eppel scored two goals to tie the game at 3-3, but Wagner took back the lead, ending the first quarter 4-3.
In the second quarter, Fordham surged ahead, scoring three quick goals to lead 6-4. Jacopo Parrella, Luca Provenziani, and Eppel contributed to this run. Wagner managed to tie the game at 6-6 before Fordham closed the quarter strong, ending with a 9-6 lead at halftime.
Fordham continued its strong performance in the second half, scoring five more goals while limiting Wagner to just five goals for the rest of the game.
How did player performances impact Fordham’s victory in the MAWPC Championship semifinals?
Interview with Water Polo Specialist on Fordham’s Victory Over Wagner
News Directory 3 recently spoke with Alex Thompson, a water polo analyst and coach, about Fordham University’s impressive 19-11 win against Wagner in the MAWPC Championship semifinals held on November 23, 2024, at the U.S. Naval Academy. Here’s what he had to say:
ND3: Alex, what were your initial thoughts on Fordham’s performance, especially since they had a challenging start in the game?
Alex Thompson: It was a tale of two halves for Fordham. They demonstrated remarkable resilience, especially after falling behind early in the first quarter. Wagner came out strong and led 3-1. However, Barnabas Eppel’s ability to score two quick goals showcased the determination of the Fordham squad, allowing them to tie the game. Their ability to respond under pressure is crucial in high-stakes matches like this.
ND3: Can you elaborate on the turning point in the match?
Alex Thompson: Definitely. The second quarter was pivotal. Fordham scored three consecutive goals to take a 6-4 lead, which shifted the momentum in their favor. Players like Jacopo Parrella and Luca Provenziani, alongside Eppel, were instrumental during this run. Even when Wagner managed to tie it at 6-6, Fordham’s late surge to close the half at 9-6 showed their depth and tactical prowess.
ND3: What do you think was the key to Fordham’s strong second half?
Alex Thompson: It boils down to a combination of offensive strategy and defensive discipline. Fordham continued to control the pace of the game, scoring another five goals while allowing Wagner only five for the remainder. Provenziani’s standout performance—five goals and four assists—was crucial, along with the contributions from Eppel and Parrella. Having a reliable goalkeeper like Thomas Lercari, who made nine saves, also anchored their defense, allowing the team to assert themselves.
ND3: Fordham will now face #20 Navy in the finals. What should they focus on in their upcoming match?
Alex Thompson: Fordham needs to maintain their offensive momentum while tightening their defense against Navy. It’s essential for them to build on their current success, particularly in converting scoring opportunities and minimizing counter-attacks. Their key players, particularly Provenziani, Eppel, and Lercari, should stay sharp. They have the capability, but it’s about executing under pressure against a formidable opponent like Navy.
ND3: Thank you for your insights, Alex. Any final thoughts?
Alex Thompson: Fordham’s victory over Wagner is a testament to their hard work and preparation. If they can carry this energy into the finals, they could very well capture the MAWPC Championship title.
This interview underscores the dynamic nature of collegiate water polo and the exciting competition that fans can look forward to in the upcoming championship match against Navy.
Provenziani stood out with five goals and four assists. Eppel and Parrella each contributed four goals. Marco Napolitano added two goals, and Balazs Berenyi, James Oriskovich, Tyler Fahey, and Andras Toth each scored one. In goal, Thomas Lercari made nine saves, had two steals, and one assist.
Fordham will face #20 Navy in the MAWPC Championship match at 1:30 PM on November 24.