After blazing through the first couple rounds of predictions, I struggled with my picks for the water polo semifinals, going just 5-3. The picks don’t get any easier for what should be a great Saturday of water polo finals. But I’m to press on and finish what I started:

Division 1

Newport def. CdM (I wonder if the Sailors peaked in the semifinals but I still like the Sailors’ strength at 2-meter offense and defense and in goal with Harrington. And despite their 8-5 victory against Santa Barbara, they can shoot better than they did in the semifinals. The Haralabidis twins are difference-makers who can raise their games, so the Sea Queens will be make this a one-goal game. Key matchup to watch: Outside shooters Cassidy Papa, Stephania Haralabidis vs. Cleo Harrington. The potential loss of Maddie Musselman (injured) also is a big factor.)

Division 2

Mater Dei def. Santa Margarita (Another tough one to call but the Eagles’ scoreless second half in the semifinal raised flags. Mater Dei seems more balanced offensively and goalie Anna Politiski and few others have been raising their games. And as impressive as Emily Loughlin was at center in the semifinals for Santa Margarita, Mackenzie Barr is capable of delivering the same type of damage for Mater Dei. But at the same time, the Monarchs don’t seem to be relying just on Barr. When Loughlin fouled out, the Eagles’ offense disappeared. It’s going to be close but the Monarchs find a way to win.)

Division 4

Troy def. La Serna

Division 6

Yorba Linda def. Pacifica

Division 7

Ocean View def. Hemet

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