Enfield Water Polo Club were narrowly beaten 10-8 by reigning champions Otter in the Middlesex League on Saturday in an entertaining clash.

Hosts Enfield rested four of their National League players, whilst Otter included five of theirs – a decision which paid off as they raced into a 2-0 lead.

However, Rob Lucas hit a brace from distance to put Enfield on level terms at the end of the first period. Christian Pulido netted a third for Enfield in the second half, but the visitors edged in front 4-3.

The third period was similarly end-to-end, with Pulido scoring twice and Lucas once to keep Enfield in the hunt, 8-6 down.

Otter went three goals clear in the fourth quarter, but Enfield refused to be beaten and scored twice more through Lucas and Pulido to stay within a goal of the visitors.

A frantic finale saw Pulido slam a shot against the inside of the post from close-range, whilst Lucas also struck the woodwork.

Otter made Enfield pay for their missed chances, finally killing the game off with a late effort.