ITHACA, N.Y. -- The Cornell men's polo team will attempt to defend its USPA D2 National Championship thanks to its 21-7 win over Texas Tech on Friday afternoon in the semifinals at Oxley Equestrian Center. The Big Red, 9-7 on the season, will face Kentucky for the title on Sunday, April 13 at 12 p.m.

Max Sponer scored six of his game-high 11 goals in the second chukker to overcome an early 4-3 deficit as the Big Red outscored the visitors 19-4 over the final three periods. Benito Jaramillo scored eight goals in the second half to seal the deal and move Cornell into its second straight national title game. Christian Finley scored once and Cornell was also credited with a pony goal.

A 6-1 run to close the first half was the difference, as Cornell took the lead into the break before outscoring the Red Raiders 12-2 to close the contest,

Grayson Price scored all seven goals in the loss for Texas Tech, who earlier beat Cal Poly 26-6 to reach the semis.