CAMBRIDGE, MA - The Iona College men's water polo team earned a berth into the 2009 Eastern Championships in Cambridge, MA after defeating Queens College 9-7 in the Northern Division Championships on Saturday, It marks the third straight season the Gaels have qualified for the Eastern Championships, the first time the team has made three straight appearances since 1989-1991.

The Gaels trailed at half 4-4, but a four goal third quarter helped separate the Gaels from the Knights. Sophomore Matt Joslyn was an all-purpose force for the Gaels, scoring two goals, dishing out two assists as well as adding a steal and three field blocks on the defensive end. Senior Joe Przekota had three goals and a kickout drawn. Classmate and fellow captain Emre Erdogan had a goal, two kickouts drawn and a steal. Junior Seth Tasman had two goals, a kickout drawn and one field block. Sophomore Cameron Hudson, four-for-four on swimoff opportunities, also added a tally for the Gaels. Junior goalie Eric Konzem made nine saves to earn the win.

The Gaels were upended by Fordham in the next game of the afternoon by the score of 7-4. On Sunday, the Gaels earned fourth place in the Northern Division Championships when they were defeated by MIT 10-8.

The Eastern Championships take place Nov. 20 - 22. Check back with ICGaels.com to learn Iona's opponent.