Strong defense leads GH over 'Dawgs

Wed, Mar 26, 2008

Grand Haven's water polo squad picked up the defensive intensity Tuesday, enabling the Bucs to score an important conference victory that also has implications in district seeding.

The Bucs' girls forced 21 steals and only turned the ball over 13 times in their 9-6 victory over Grandville, improving their record to 2-0.

"I'm extremely proud at the way the girls stepped up the intensity level on the defensive end," Grand Haven coach Adam Briggs said. "We completely took (Grandville) out of what they wanted to do offensively and we were able to build an early, quick lead and then hang on."

Grand Haven had a 7-3 lead after three periods, but the Bulldogs made a late run, notching three goals in the final period to make things a little more interesting.

"Although our defense was solid, we still made a few mental mistakes," Briggs said. "Four of their goals came on penalty shots, so we have to learn how to maintain that aggressiveness, but still play smart."

Senior tri-captain Kaitlyn Dean had a strong night, leading the Bucs with five goals. Her sophomore sister, Emily, added two scores, while senior Kaylie Kalavitz notched two more.

Briggs said junior goalie Kinsey Damaska had another solid effort as well, making six saves.

The Bucs are back in action Thursday as they host East Kentwood, then host their own 9-team invitational Friday. The Bucs open with West Ottawa at 4:30 p.m.

JUNIOR VARSITY: The Bucs overwhelmed Grandville Tuesday, 13-3.