USA Beats Australia 13–12 at the Buzzer to Open Water Polo Exhibition Series
Team USA opened its June men’s water polo exhibition series with a dramatic 13–12 victory over Australia, sealed by a buzzer-beating goal at Mt. San Antonio College.
In front of a spirited California crowd, the match featured high-level physicality, sharp execution, and a back-and-forth scoring battle. Emerging star Ryder Dodd led the way with five goals, including the final shot that found the back of the net as time expired. Dodd was in San Francisco the night before to receive NCAA Water Polo’s highest honor, The Peter J. Cutino Award.
Australia jumped out to an early lead, but the Americans responded with strong second and third quarters. Contributions came from a balanced group including Chase Dodd, Dominic Brown, Jake Ehrhardt, Hannes Daube, and Dylan Woodhead.
The final moments were tense. With the game tied at 12-12 and just seconds remaining, Team USA executed a set play that gave Dodd the final look. His buzzer-beater secured the one-goal win and gave the U.S. the early edge in the exhibition series.
Veteran goalkeeper Bernardo Herzer anchored the defense with 12 saves, helping stifle Australia’s attack in critical moments.
Game Highlights
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Final Score: USA 13–12 Australia
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Venue: Mt. San Antonio College, Walnut, CA
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Series: Men’s Exhibition Series Opener
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Top Scorer: Ryder Dodd (5 goals)
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Goalkeeper Saves: Bernardo Herzer (12)
What’s Next
The exhibition series continues June 11 at JSerra Catholic High School and wraps up June 13 at Chapman University in Orange, CA. These games offer critical prep time as Team USA continues building toward the LA28 Olympic Games.
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