With additional reporting by George Laase. 

Culver City High School’s girls water polo team played their best game of the year when they beat very good El Segundo 7-6 in two overtimes last Tuesday at The Plunge.

“The girls played beautifully,” said longtime head coach Nestor Dordoni Sr. “We have not played that well in the last four years.”

Several Centaurs were outstanding — Mariko Rooks, Ana Garcia, Capt. Amber Kennedy, Lily Gardner and goalkeeper Grace Campbell.  “I am really happy for Grace,” Dordoni said.

The Centaurs must get ready for Santa Monica, the best team in the Ocean League, one of the CIF’s premier teams.

The Centaurs play at Santa Monica on Tuesday at 3. If they can upset the Vikings, the possibilities are limitless.

“The victory over El Segundo means that we can fight for second place,” said Dordoni “Santa Monica is the best team in the league, but you never know.”

Rooks, who also plays softball, is excited about the immediate future. “We have really come together as a team,” she said. “This team has worked hard since August. It is a great feeling to be where we are.”

Gardner said Culver City prevailed “because we have great team chemistry. We  pay attention to details. Our hard work in practice is paying off.”

One more reason everyone was elated after the win over El Segundo:

It was Kennedy’s birthday.

One of the best she ever had.

Mr. Finley may be contacted at sfinley50@aol.com

Mr. Laase may be contacted at GMLaase@aol.com