GOLETA, Calif. – In a dramatic Channel League opener, the Dos Pueblos High School Chargers secured a 15‑12 overtime victory over the Buena Bulldogs on Saturday night. The win not only gave the Chargers a strong start to league play but also moved them to a 12‑5 overall record and a #5 spot in the CIF‑Southern Section’s first power rankings of the season.
Game Flow and Key Performances
The Chargers set the tone early, jumping to a 3‑0 lead after the first quarter and extending the advantage to 5‑3 at halftime. Senior forward Grant Nelson was the offensive catalyst, scoring six goals – the most on the team – and adding a crucial penalty conversion in overtime.
Midway through the third period, Dos Pueblos held an 8‑5 lead thanks to back‑to‑back goals from Nelson. However, Buena’s junior Paolo DelNagro answered with six goals of his own, keeping the Bulldogs within striking distance. After three quarters, Buena trailed only 8‑7, and a fourth‑quarter surge gave them a 10‑9 lead.
Buena’s chance to stretch the lead to two goals was thwarted when sophomore goalkeeper Koa Zertuche made a decisive block on a penalty shot, preserving the Chargers’ chance to tie. Zertuche finished the game with ten saves.
Overtime Drama
The teams entered two three‑minute overtime periods tied at 10‑10. Senior Lucas Neushul opened the first overtime with a goal, and Nelson’s penalty conversion pushed Dos Pueblos ahead 12‑10. In the second overtime, sophomore Channing Wigo added another goal, followed by additional scores from Nelson and senior Tyler Racine, sealing the win.
Wigo’s performance was notable; he finished the night with five goals, making him a key contributor in the clutch moments.
Implications and Upcoming Schedule
With the victory, the Chargers improve to 12‑5 overall and earn a top‑five ranking in the CIF‑Southern Section power list, reflecting their strong start to the season. The team will host San Marcos on Tuesday, October 6, in what promises to be another competitive matchup.
Dos Pueblos’ success highlights the depth of talent across the roster, from senior leaders like Nelson and Neushul to underclassmen such as Zertuche, Wigo, and Racine. Their ability to execute under pressure bodes well for the remainder of the Channel League schedule.
Community Support
The game drew a lively crowd of students, parents, and local supporters who cheered both teams throughout the intense contest. The Chargers’ victory adds to the growing excitement around high‑school water polo in the Goleta area, reinforcing the sport’s role in fostering teamwork, discipline, and community pride.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
