In a match-up of the top two teams in the Big 8 Conference, the Cosumnes River College Hawks (CRC) dropped a 1-0 heart-breaker in eight innings on Tuesday. As a result, the 7th-ranked Hawks fall to second in the conference despite leading almost the entire season.
"We played our hearts out. Ashlee pitched a phenomenal game, and the game could have gone either way. It was truly a game of inches," said head coach Kristy Schroeder. "Regardless, it was a great atmosphere, and I appreciate all the fans coming out to support us."
Ashlee Toy took the loss despite giving up only two hits and striking out six. CRC managed only four hits of their own in a tight pitcher's duel. Tori Ochoa had two hits for the Hawks.
Through seven innings neither team allowed a runner past second base. However, in the top of the eight, Jazzy Smith reached on a bunt and advanced to second on an error. Sierra bunted her to third, and she scored when Krstin Blake's line-drive snuck past a diving Leandra Coronado at shortstop. However, CRC mounted a comeback in the bottom of the eighth. Gabi Lipsky started the rally by reaching on an error. Mishi McBride followed with a single, and both runners advanced on an errant throw. Despite having runners in scoring position, the Hawks could not get the tying run across.
"Those are the types of games that will get us ready for the playoffs. I'm looking forward to seeing who we get matched up with and what we can accomplish," added Schroeder.
Sophmores, Mary Baccay, Leandra Coronado, Danielle Pfennig, Nicole Seravia, and Ashlee Toy were honored after the game. CRC finishes the regular season with a 24-14 record. CCCAA playoff seedings will be announced on Saturday, April 30.