<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2UPIVU_0vlhGCFo00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2UPIVU_0vlhGCFo00" width="675" height="450" >UCI men's water polo is set to host two critical matches against highly-ranked MSPF opponents this weekend: No. 6 California on September 27 and No. 3 Stanford on September 28. Currently ranked eighth in both the CWPA Weekly Poll and the Association of College Water Polo Coaches poll, the Anteaters are looking to improve their record after a mixed performance at the Big West-WCC Clash. They previously played against California and Stanford at the Triton Invitational, losing both encounters.<ul><li>UCI is ranked eighth in the CWPA Weekly Poll.</li><li>California has won three consecutive NCAA Championships.</li><li>Stanford's leading scorer, Riley Pittman, has 38 points, including 21 goals and 17 assists.</li></ul>Yes, ButDespite UCI's strong performances against lower-ranked teams, they face a significant challenge ahead against two top-tier teams. Past matchups show a disparity, as they lost by six goals to California and nine to Stanford. This raises questions about their ability to contend at a higher level.State of Play<ul><li>UCI previously endured losses to both California and Stanford, putting them at a disadvantage going into the weekend.</li><li>The Anteaters have shown resilience, notably overcoming a six-point deficit against LMU.</li></ul>UCI aims to refine their gameplay this weekend, focusing on defensive strategies and exploiting offensive opportunities against both opponents. Success may hinge on key players, particularly Johann Thrall and Jacob Pyle, who have demonstrated promising performances.Bottom LineThe Anteaters must elevate their performance against elite competition to solidify their standing in the CWPA. This weekend's games are crucial for both confidence and ranking, making it imperative for UCI to harness their potential to secure victories.</div></body>

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UCI Water Polo Battles No. 6 California & No. 3 Stanford This Weekend

UCI men's water polo is set to host two critical matches against highly-ranked MSPF opponents this weekend: No. 6 California on September 27 and No. 3 Stanford on September 28. Currently ranked eighth in both the CWPA Weekly Poll and the Association of College Water Polo Coaches poll, the Anteaters are looking to improve their record after a mixed performance at the Big West-WCC Clash. They previously played against California and Stanford at the Triton Invitational, losing both encounters.