TURLOCK, Calif. - In a conference clash that saw the Chico State Wildcats softball team facing off against the Stan State Warriors, the Wildcats endured a challenging day on the field. The Wildcats drop their first back-to-back games of the season after falling to the Warriors 5-2 in the series opener and 5-4 in second half of the doubleheader. The 'Cats now fall to 3-3 in CCAA play and 11-5 overall.
Game 1
The game opened with promise as Chico State's starting pitcher, Amelie Valdez, took the mound. Despite solid efforts, the Wildcats could not maintain control against a robust Stan State offensive line. Aiyana Curry and Brianna Swihart were the Wildcats' scorers, and notable efforts on RBIs were made by Gracie Dunning and Hannah Levy.
An error from the 'Cats allowed the Warriors to take a multiple run lead in the 4th inning, the 'Cats responded with a run of their own and a string of offense in the following inning but nothing that could make a significant dent in the lead.
Game 2
The game began on a high note for Chico State, with the Wildcats jumping out to a promising start, scoring twice in the first inning. Key players such as Aiyana Curry and Ali Lewis shone brightly in the lineup. Curry drove in two key runs, including a powerful homer and a crucial double, while Lewis contributed with a solid single that drove in a run. Gracie Dunning also left her mark on the game, smashing a home run in the third inning and bringing further excitement to Chico State's strong offensive display.
Despite the robust start, the Wildcats faced a tough challenge from the Warriors. Bella Tavares, the starting pitcher for Chico State, struggled early on, allowing four earned runs in just 0.2 innings pitched. However, Kylie Loertscher came in as a relief pitcher and delivered a strong performance that kept the Wildcats in contention throughout the game.
Looking forward, the Chico State Wildcats are set to face the Warriors twice more on Saturday. With their current season record at 11-5, the Wildcats are eager to showcase their resilience and reclaim a victory in the closing end of the series. First pitch in Turlock is at 11 a.m. at Warrior Softball Field.
