LA VERNE, Calif. - Record days by Patrik Zsiros and Marius Jakimcikas propelled the Concordia University Irvine men's water polo team to wins over McKendree and La Verne in the Gary Troyer Tournament.
Patrik Zsiros entered Friday needing only four goals to pass Spencer Hosch (103) for most recorded goals in Eagles history.
He wasted no time as he scored four goals in CUI's first game against McKendree, which the Eagles won 20-11. He also added three goals in the Eagles' win over La Verne in their second game of the day, bringing his career total to 107 goals. The final of that game was 22-15.
A very humble Zsiros had this to say after his record breaking day. "I am very happy that this happened and I would like to thank my coach, Dreason Barry, (for) the opportunity to represent the Eagles. I would also like to thank my teammates, because it's a team sport and it wouldn't be possible without them."
Jakimcikas was not about to let Zsiros have all the glory. He entered today only needing nine goals to pass Angel Rojas (50) for most recorded goals in a single season.
He scored five goals in the Eagles' win against McKendree leaving him needing four more to claim the record. Jakimcikas left no doubt as he scored nine goals in the Eagles' win over La Verne, bringing his season total to 56.
Jakimcikas was very thankful after the game. "First and foremost, I want to say a big thank you to everyone who supported me: my teammates, my coaching staff, my friends and family. I want to say a huge thanks to my coach for giving me the chance to be here and represent CUI," said Jakimcikas. "This individual achievement would not be possible without my teammates. Every single goal that I have scored this season so far is a result of the team effort. Hard work pays off, but there is still a lot of work to do this season and I just want to keep improving to help my team win."
While both of these Eagles had a record breaking day, Messan Moore also played a huge part in the Eagles' morning win over McKendree. He scored six goals on only six shots helping propel the Eagles to victory.
The Eagles are back in action tomorrow as they take on Occidental College at 10:20am and Navy at 2:20pm.
