THOUSAND OAKS, Calif.- The Mercyhurst men's water polo team won, 9-8, at Cal Lutheran Thursday. Alex Strong scored the game-winning goal in the fourth quarter and Andrew Too-A-Foo posted 11 saves as the Lakers had a successful opening to their West Coast trip.

Down a goal entering the fourth frame, Strong scored early to tie the match at 7. The teams traded goals and then Jack Howe found Strong on a cross cage pass for the go-ahead goal with 1:40 remaining. The hosts had a man-up chance in the final minute, but Too-A-Foo turned away a tying attempt with five seconds left, sealing Mercyhurst's victory.

After falling behind, 2-1, after a period, the Lakers rallied to even the halftime score at 4. Cal Lutheran regained a 7-6 edge through three quarters.

Dave Matulis finished with four goals, while Strong scored three times. Joey Ryan dished out two assists, while Howe and Samuel Lopez each scored once. Too-A-Foo tallied 11 stops in net.

Mercyhurst improved to 6-7 this year. It continues action in California tomorrow, playing at Pomona-Pitzer. The match is set for a 10 p.m. Eastern Time start.