Indiana University Athletics
Indiana University
San Jose State
Hoosiers Go Down to No. 9 San Jose State
3/21/2009 12:00:00 AM | Women's Water Polo
March 21, 2009
SAN DIEGO, Calif. - Junior Kelly Palmberg scored three goals for No. 18 Indiana (12-10, 4-0 CWPA West), but the Hoosiers could not overcome a consistent offensive attack by No. 9 San Jose State, as the Spartans won 9-6 on Saturday at the Aztec Invitational.
"We had a strong start, and played with a lot of effort," said Indiana head coach Barry King. "Overall, we played a talented team that executed throughout the game."
Sophomore Kelsey Campbell scored two goals, and senior Maggie Hannon added one to round out the Hoosier scoring attack.
Indiana struck first when Campbell scored on a put-back goal during the first quarter, giving the Hoosiers a 1-0 lead that they would maintain until the second period.
The Spartans dominated the second quarter, scoring two goals in the first minute of the period. Palmberg and the Hoosiers came back with a goal from the left side after an assist from sophomore Amy Moore. San Jose State finished the quarter with a power play goal to take a 3-2 lead into the half.
The third period featured more of the same, with the Spartans capitalizing on a six on five, followed by a one on one goal to extend their lead to 5-2. Indiana followed with a score when Hannon spun and scored with an assist from freshman Jakie Köhli. Köhli finished the game with a team-high three assists, to go along with two steals.
San Jose State went on a three goal run from the 2:35 mark in the third quarter to 6:43 remaining in the fourth period, which extended their lead to 8-3.
The game appeared out of reach, but the Hoosiers mounted a final rally, thanks in large part to their four kick-outs earned in the fourth quarter. Palmberg scored two goals on power plays in a span of 23 seconds. Campbell added a six on five goal of her own, scoring from the top after an assist by Köhli to make it an 8-6 SJSU lead.
The game would not get any closer, as the Spartans maintained their lead, and added another goal with 11 seconds left.
Freshman Cassie Wyckoff finished the game with nine saves and four steals for the Hoosiers in her second start of the day.
Indiana will be back in action on Sunday at 8 a.m. PT against No. 6 California.
