CHICO, Calif. – The Chico State softball team welcomed No. 1 Cal State San Marcos to town Friday, with the Cougars entering the series on an impressive 20-game winning streak. Senior pitcher Amelie Valdez quickly put an end to that run in the opener, shutting out the top-ranked Cougars and handing them their only scoreless game of the season so far.

Cal State San Marcos responded to claim the second game of the doubleheader, but the Wildcats showed resilience throughout the day. Chico State moves to 7-11 overall and 1-4 in CCAA play.

Game 1: Chico State 1, CSUSM 0

Senior Amelie Valdez delivered another dominant performance in the circle, shutting out the No. 1-ranked team in the nation. Valdez allowed just four hits while striking out six in the complete-game victory.

The Wildcats' defense was equally sharp, holding firm behind Valdez throughout all seven innings.

Chico State's lone run came off the bat of Brianna Swihart, who delivered the game-winning RBI with a double to right-center field. Swihart battled through a lengthy at-bat, fouling off seven pitches before driving the ball into the outfield to bring home the deciding run.

Game 2: Chico State 2, CSUSM 12

The Cougars responded in the second game of the doubleheader, jumping on the Wildcats early as Chico State's pitching staff faced the challenge of slowing one of the nation's most potent offenses.

Hannah Levy, Italia Abrenica and Annika Isaacson accounted for the Wildcats' three hits in the game.

Itzell De Los Rios added an RBI, driving in one of Chico State's two runs in the contest.

The Wildcats continue the CCAA series against the Cougars on Saturday, March 14, with first pitch scheduled for 10 a.m. at Wildcat Softball Field.