No. 3 Mundelein 10, No. 6 Libertyville 7
THE SKINNY
In the most physical match of the boys water polo Mundelein Sectional thus far, the No. 3 Mustangs used a third-period flurry to pull away from the No. 6 Wildcats and win 10-7 in the semifinal round Friday. Mundelein advances to Saturday’s sectional final against Stevenson.
TURNING POINT
With 4:25 remaining in the third period, Mundelein (19-13) led 5-3. Libertyville coach Ivan Munoz received his second yellow card, resulting in an ejection. The Wildcats (15-9) immediately responded in a positive way, scoring 12 seconds later when Jason Voelker (three goals) snuck a shot inside the right post. But the emotion was short lived, as the Mustangs scored three times in the period’s final 3:05 to take a commanding 8-4 lead.
THE STAR
Mike Ward. The Mustangs sophomore scored four goals, twice on 6-on-5 advantages in the second period. Jude Krauss added three goals for Mundelein, all in the decisive third period. Goalie Alfonso Ochoa was outstanding again, totaling 12 saves.
BY THE NUMBERS
Mundelein was eliminated by Libertyville a season ago in the sectional quarterfinals. This is the Mustangs’ first sectional final appearance since 2010.
QUOTABLE
“Two years ago we were the eighth-seed and had to play in a play-in game. This means a lot, especially to the seniors.” — Krauss
