SANTA CLARA - The Cal State Monterey Bay water polo team opened the Santa Clara Invitational by taking No. 22 Cal State Northridge to the brink and nearly knocking off host Santa Clara on the opening day of the Santa Clara Invitational on Saturday at the Sullivan Aquatic Center.
 
"The otters came out with fire today," CSUMB head coach Emily Schmit said." We worked really hard this week on specific tactics and the team did a great job of recognizing and applying those today. We are super proud of this team for their composure and energy and continuing to push their game forward. We look forward to continuing the progress tomorrow against two more nationally ranked programs."
 
#22 Cal State Northridge 12, CSUMB 9
 
The Otters opened the Santa Clara Invitational with a 12-9 loss to No. 22-ranked Cal State Northridge.
 
Alex Harris and Katie Rudis scored a pair of goals and handed out two assists, while Marissa White made 11 saves.
 
Santa Clara 11 – CSUMB 10
 
The host Broncos scored the game-winner with one-minute left to down the Otters, 11-10.
 
Stella Martin tallied six points on four goals and two assists and Autumn Day scored twice and handed out an assist.
 
The Otters continue the tournament tomorrow against two ranked opponents. CSUMB will take on No. 23 Marist College at 11:30 a.m. and then face No. 20 Pacific at 2:30 p.m.