SAN RAFAEL, CALIF.- In a game for the ages, Cardinal Newman's varsity boys water polo team pulled off a nail-biting victory over Washington High of Fremont, advancing to the NCS championship match after a marathon triple-overtime, 15-14 victory. The semi-final game, played on Wednesday, was marked by intense back-and-forth play, with neither team willing to relent as regulation time gave way to three heart-stopping overtime periods.

The Cardinals started slightly behind, trailing 2-3 after the first quarter and 5-7 by halftime. Despite the early deficit, they surged back in the third quarter, closing the gap to 10-11. The fourth quarter was a battle of determination, ending with both teams locked in a 13-13 tie, forcing overtime.

In the first overtime period, Cardinal Newman managed to pull ahead 14-13, thanks to gritty plays and crucial defensive stops. However, Washington quickly responded in the second overtime, equalizing to send the game into sudden death. With both teams fatigued and the stakes at their highest, Cardinal Newman finally broke through when Brody Hansel earned a decisive 5-meter penalty. Team captain Mathias McCarthy stepped up and scored the penalty shot, clinching the 15-14 win and sending the Cardinals to the finals.

Hansel was instrumental in the victory, leading the team with five goals, eight assists, and seven steals, while earning five exclusions and six penalties—dominating all areas of the game. McCarthy added two crucial goals, including the game-winner, while Tomas McCarthy contributed three goals and three assists. The team also benefited from standout defensive performances by Ian Beranek and Harlan Heibel, who together contributed four steals. Goalie Mason Ballard held strong, recording eight saves to keep CN in the game.

The Cardinals will now face Marin Academy in the championship game this Saturday. After such a grueling semi-final, they'll be looking to carry their momentum into the finals and bring home the title.