LOS ANGELES, Calif. - The Concordia University Irvine men's water polo opened Western Water Polo Association play on Thursday against the No. 15 Loyola Marymount Lions.

In the first half, Loyola Marymount got off to a hot start establishing a six-goal lead before freshman Leo Erickson put an end to their run with 10 seconds left in the second quarter. 

The Golden Eagles were held at bay in the third quarter but senior Harry Nixon was able to break through the Lions defense to give CUI some momentum heading into the final period.

Senior Jeff Runyan helped kickstart the Golden Eagles' offense by providing two goals. That brings his tally to an astonishing 18 goals through five games.

Harry Nixon was able to find the back of the net again as well while Shaine Sargis scored a minute later.  Additionally, freshman Harry Bentham earned the first goal of his Golden Eagle career.  Meanwhile, Hunter Osgood held it down on the other side of the pool collecting eight saves in 20 minutes of play.

Despite the five-goal outburst, Loyola Marymount was able to close out the game with a 18-7 victory.

To see the full CUI men's water polo schedule CLICK HERE.

CUI will be back in action Saturday, Sept. 10 at 9 a.m. at the Redlands Tournament in Claremont, Calif.