The University of Redlands women's water polo team embarked upon a new era on Sunday morning, kicking off the 2015 season under the direction of first-year Head Coach Chris Gielen.  While facing a tough Chapman University squad, the Bulldogs struggled to find their offensive rhythm and suffered an 8-16 loss at the Thompson Aquatic Center.

The Panthers jumped out to an early 4-0 lead, forcing the Maroon and Gray into a game of catch-up.  Senior utility player Deandra Van Houten (Huntington Beach, CA) scored one for the Bulldogs with eight seconds left in the frame.

Redlands doubled its offensive output in the second period, with Van Houten and junior utility player Taylor Christie (Anaheim, CA) each finding the back of the net. 

But Chapman remained relentless with a five-goal showing for a 9-3 lead at the midway point of the game.

The Panthers extended their advantage with a 5-1 run in the third, before the Bulldogs put together their best showing of the game with a 4-2 advantage in the final frame.  Freshman attack player Rachel Haney (Redmond, OR) notched a pair of scores for Redlands, while Christie, Van Houten, and sophomore driver Rashel Alvarez-Zakson (Santa Monica, CA) each recorded a goal before the final whistle.

Despite the loss, junior goalkeeper AC Lopez (Northridge, CA) racked up 10 saves in an admirable showing in her first game as the starter.

Redlands (0-1) heads to Whittier College on Saturday, February 7, to face the Poets in a non-conference showdown at 12 noon, before taking on Azusa Pacific University at 3 p.m. at the same location.