CLAREMONT, Calif. - With a quick detour to Claremont, the Concordia women's water polo team faced off against Azusa Pacific to mark the fifth conference match of the season. Concordia held its own against the Cougars for the first eight minutes of the match, but gradually lost the lead. 

A star-studded performance from Sierrah Ferguson provided ample opportunity for the Golden Eagles to strike. The freshman center blazed ahead of the competition and collected a season-high four goals. She tallied dual goals in the first period as well as in the fourth period. Her efforts in the water got things started for CUI.

Emeline Smiley, Hannah Edwards, and Anna Tyukasz also made great contributions to Concordia's offense. Despite initial high energy from the Golden Eagles, the Cougars held tight to the lead for the remainder of the match.  

Sophomore goalie Jaden Soto was a force to reckon with between the bars and did her best against APU's relentless offense. The Murrieta-native made 12 crucial saves to put the Green and the Gold in a better position.

The Golden Eagles rallied in the fourth period with five goals, but it wasn't enough to close the gap between the Cougars. Concordia fell to APU with a final score of 8-13. 

NEXT UP: The Green and the Gold are back at home on Friday, March 28. The Golden Eagles will take on LMU at 11 a.m. You don't want to miss it! 

CLICK HERE for the FULL Concordia women's water polo schedule.