The Leigh (San Jose, CA) varsity water polo team will host a home playoff game against Morro Bay (CA) today at 5:30 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 CIF NorCal Girls Water Polo Championships – Division III tournament.

Morro Bay vs Leigh Water Polo Game Info:

What: California High School Water Polo
Who: Morro Bay vs Leigh
When: Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Time: 5:30 p.m.
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Game preview: Morro Bay vs Leigh

The 2024-2025 high school girls’ water polo season is heating up as Morro Bay and Leigh square off in a highly anticipated matchup. With both teams showcasing impressive records and exceptional talent, the game promises to be an exciting showdown. Let’s dive into the details of each team’s performance and how they stack up against each other.

Morro Bay’s Season Overview

Morro Bay enters this matchup with an 18-10 overall record and a league performance of 3-5. Their success has largely come from strong offensive play, averaging 9.7 goals per game. However, their defense has faced challenges, allowing 238 goals over the course of the season. At home, Morro Bay boasts a solid 7-4 record but has struggled on the road, finishing with a 4-4 away record. Their team has shown resilience, but their inconsistency against tougher competition has raised concerns.

• Key Players:
  • Ava Beckett (#8): The team’s standout scorer, with 31 goals and 32 shots on goal, is a critical offensive force.
  • Tessa Standrige (10/1A): An all-around player, contributing 6 assists and 15 steals, she has been a defensive asset for Morro Bay.

Leigh’s Season Overview

Leigh comes into this game with a slightly better record of 13-8 overall and an impressive 5-1 in league play. Their performance has been strong across all areas, with an average of 10.6 goals per game and only 172 goals allowed. The team’s balance between offense and defense has been a key factor in their success. At home, they are undefeated with a 5-1 record, while their away performance (2-4) indicates some struggles when traveling. With an 6-3 record in neutral-site games and a strong playoff showing, Leigh has emerged as one of the top contenders this season.

• Key Players:
  • Emma Little (#11): A dominant scorer with 42 goals, Emma Little is the backbone of Leigh’s offense. Her 92 shots on goal illustrate her central role in driving the team’s attack.
  • Summer Mo (#4): A defensive standout, leading the team with 55 steals, she has been instrumental in disrupting opposing offenses.

Team Comparisons

While both teams have put up strong numbers this season, Leigh has the upper hand in several key statistical categories:

• Goals: Morro Bay has scored 79 goals, while Leigh has scored an impressive 193, showcasing their superior offensive production.
• Assists: Morro Bay has contributed 27 assists compared to Leigh’s 157, highlighting the team’s ability to create scoring opportunities.
• Shots: Morro Bay has taken 94 shots, but Leigh’s 449 shots indicate a much more aggressive offensive strategy.
• Steals: Morro Bay has accumulated 48 steals, while Leigh has 192, demonstrating Leigh’s superior defense.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Looking at their performances against common opponents provides additional insight into the strengths and weaknesses of each team. Both teams have faced Righetti, with Morro Bay losing 12-8, 14-7, and 13-2, while Leigh lost 12-3 in their only meeting with Righetti. Despite the loss, Leigh’s competitive nature suggests they will bring their best against Morro Bay.

Record Breakdown

• Morro Bay’s Record:
  • Overall: 18-10
  • League: 3-5
  • Home: 7-4
  • Away: 4-4
  • Neutral: 7-2
  • Playoff: 4-0
• Leigh’s Record:
  • Overall: 13-8
  • League: 5-1
  • Home: 5-1
  • Away: 2-4
  • Neutral: 6-3
  • Playoff: 3-0

Morro Bay has had a strong playoff performance with a perfect 4-0 record, but Leigh’s 3-0 playoff record also reflects their ability to rise to the occasion.

Conclusion

This game promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Leigh coming in as the slight favorite based on their higher offensive output and defensive capabilities. However, Morro Bay’s tenacity and home advantage could make them a formidable opponent. Fans of high school water polo can expect a competitive and fast-paced match as both teams fight for supremacy in this exciting rivalry.