POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. — The No. 21 Wagner women's water polo team mounted a late comeback effort but ultimately fell to No. 18 Marist, 11-9 in Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference action at the McCann Natatorium.

Marist set the tone early, holding Wagner 2-1 behind a goal from junior Catherine Mentz in the opening quarter while building advantage. The Red Foxes capitalized on their early opportunities, putting the Seahawks in a deficit that proved challenging to overcome.

Wagner responded in the second period with two goals from freshman Lacey Aquaro and senior Martina Parisi, one each, finding its rhythm offensively while tightening up defensively. However, Marist overscored Wagner 4-2 in the quarter, with contributions from multiple attackers helping cut into the lead. Despite the improved play, Marist maintained a 6-3 edge heading into halftime.

The third quarter was a more balanced contest, as both teams traded goals throughout the period. Wagner continued to generate offensive moves, with junior Maylen Sampedro Tarela contributing to the scoring effort. However, Marist answered each push, keeping its advantage intact at 8-4 entering the final frame.

Wagner made its strongest push in the fourth quarter, erupting for five goals in an attempt to complete the comeback. Senior captain Magali Ogg played a key role in the late surge, completing a hat trick, while the Seahawks' defense limited Marist's opportunities. Despite outscoring the Red Foxes 5-3 in the period, Wagner was unable to fully close the gap as Marist held on for the 11-9 victory.

Goals: Ogg (3), Ana Arias Pérez (2), Sampedro Tarela, Mentz, Parisi, Aquaro

Up Next: The Seahawks will continue Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference play next weekend at the VMI-MAAC Showcase in Lexington, Virginia. Wagner opens the weekend on Saturday, March 28, with an early matchup against Virginia Military Institute at 8 a.m., followed by an afternoon contest against Mount St. Mary's (Md.) at 2 p.m. The Seahawks will close out the showcase on Sunday, March 29, taking on Iona at 12:30 p.m. at the VMI Aquatic Center.