March 19, 2023

Warriors Split Doubleheader, Take Series 3-1

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By Francisco Claudio

Westcliff's softball team had another date with the University of Antelope Valley as they finished off the series with another doubleheader on Saturday.
 
The Warriors were able to take the first game 8-5 but struggled in the second losing, 8-7.
 
Both teams had a quick start to the first game as runs were scored and Westcliff found themselves down 2-1.
 
But a homerun by Diamond Lewis in the top of the second became the catalyst for the Warriors' run.
 
They would go on to score 4 runs in the second inning and take the lead 5-2.
 
The game continued its flow with runs from both teams scored but always Westcliff in the lead.
 
The bottom of the seventh came around and UAV's last chance to make something happen.
 
After getting a couple of single hits, UAV had enough players on bases and scored two runs.
 
It wasn't enough as Westcliff's starting pitcher Emily Rosas finished the job by getting the win.
 
Rosas pitched the whole game and earned eight strikeouts but allowed 12 hits and five runs scored.
 
In the second game, Westcliff got down early again in the first inning 4-1.
 
Head Coach Vanessa Kellems quickly changed pitchers as Etta Van Burgsteden was out and Hendricks took the mound.
 
The ball game reached its peak in the last inning much like the first game as the Warriors went up to bat in the top of the seventh.
 
Down 8-4, the Warriors needed at least four to extend the game.
 
But Westcliff came up short and could only get three runs in an 8-7 defeat.
 
"The team played both games hard with a strong purpose to play," said Kellems. "They executed all the things we asked and pushed the envelope on key points we've been working towards. 
 
"Very pleased with the team winning this series and winning the majority of the innings."
 
Up next for the Warriors is a four-game series against Simpson University starting on Friday, March 24.
 
The first game will begin at 1:00 PM.