Geraldton water polo round four: B52’s post commanding wins in men’s and women’s A-grade competitions

Several teams started to show their championship credentials as round four of the Geraldton water polo season saw the competition heat up, with B52’s top men back to their best. In men’s A-grade, B52’s posted a commanding 9-5 win over Demons on Saturday, with Kurt Tunbridge a standout for the winners, scoring three goals and creating several attacking chances. Both goalkeepers were exceptional, with Jack Deschamp blocking countless shots for B52’s and Drew McGregor putting on a masterclass in athletic defending for Demons, keeping his side in the hunt despite the scoreline. The women’s A grade saw B52’s bounce back in emphatic fashion with a dominant 16-3 victory over Serpents. Emma Smith and Keshi McCagh were superb for the winners, sharing 11 goals between them and driving their team forward with energy and precision. Serpents’ younger players continued to show promise, with Grace Johnson again catching the eye for her tenacity and leadership under pressure. Demons continued their unbeaten start to the season with a well-deserved 9-4 win over Rats in the earlier A-grade game. Olivia Higgs extended her excellent form, netting three goals, while Billie Marshall and Abbie McDonald also impressed with their all-round play. Rats were competitive throughout, led by strong efforts from Esta Penberthy and Tessa O’Malley, who refused to let their opponents settle. In men’s B-grade, B52’s once again claimed bragging rights in their derby with Relics, running out 18-6 winners. Callum Sojan, Spencer Sojan, and Kingston Warren combined for 10 goals in a polished performance. Demons also stood tall with an 8-2 victory over Rats, delivering one of their most complete performances of the season with teamwork and defensive pressure key to their success. The women’s B-grade featured another big result as Rats took advantage of Demons Black being short on numbers to win 10-6 on Saturday morning. Tessa O’Malley starred with four goals, spearheading a strong attacking display from a youthful and improving Rats side. Demons battled hard and showed plenty of heart despite being outnumbered. Serpents also had reason to celebrate with a 14-4 win over Demons Yellow, Bianca Brennan scoring six outstanding goals in a display of speed and skill. Mel Bennett enjoyed another good outing out of goals for Demons, scoring twice in an otherwise tough contest. In women’s C-grade, Rats secured their first win of the season with a thrilling 8-7 victory over Demons Black, with Kessie Bylund leading the charge. Serpents Blue kept their strong form going with a 7-5 win over B52’s, thanks to the leadership and composure of Jill Gamble, who guided her side from the back. The final C-grade clash saw Serpents Green defeat Demons Yellow 11-7 to stay top of the ladder, with Bianca Brennan once again shining bright, scoring six times and proving near-unstoppable in attack. The men’s C-grade saw one of the most entertaining matches of the round, as Rats and Demons played out a thrilling 6-6 draw. Kaeleb Prout stood tall in goal for Rats, while Colby Bunter was equally impressive for Demons. In the other match, Serpents fell 16-7 to an ever-improving B52’s outfit. Spencer Sojan continued his strong form with four goals, while Serpents showed glimpses of potential with young Isaac Gamble producing a solid performance reminiscent of his mother’s composure in the pool.