BURBANK — Defense has long been a cornerstone for Crescenta Valley High girls’ water polo success.
Thus, on Thursday, as a lack of offensive execution and production drew the ire of Falcons Coach Brent Danna, it was defensive dominance throughout that still afforded Crescenta Valley a comfortable 13-1 victory against Glendale in the Pacific League Tournament final at Burbank High to wrap up the league crown.
“Everything’s defense,” said Crescenta Valley’s Elissa Arnold, who had four goals and four steals. “We’ve definitely had an emphasis on defense since my freshman year.”
PHOTOS: Defensive dominance lands Crescenta Valley girls' water polo victory
Crescenta Valley (21-6, 8-0 in league), ranked third in CIF Southern Section Division V, wrapped up its fifth straight league title at the expense of ninth-ranked Glendale (15-7, 6-2), though both teams will learn their playoff fates on Sunday, when postseason pairings are released by the CIF office. The Falcons will set out in hopes of defending their Division V title, which they won last season under Danna for the program’s first plaque.