Late rally dooms Matadors softball in second game of double-header

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - In game one of the double-header, starting pitcher Jessica Smith went the distance, only surrending one hit along the way en route to a 7-0 victory.

However, the Matadors fell behind early in game two, trailing 1-0 in the bottom of the first inning against the College of Southern Nevada. Lea Frechette tried to spark a response by sending a ball over third base, but the shortstop made a diving catch.

In the second inning, Autumn Arriola delivered a big moment by driving a ball deep into the left-center gap. As the Coyotes chased it down, Arriola hustled into second base with a stand-up double, putting the Matadors in position to tie the game.

Later in the inning, Gabby Weisser came through by hitting a hard ground ball that deflected off a defender’s glove. She beat the throw to first, and the runner crossed the plate to even the score.

Laisha Ibarra kept the momentum going with a strong swing, sending the ball over the left fielder’s head. She cruised into second base for a double while Destiny Martinez came all the way around to score, giving the Matadors the lead at 2-1.

The defense also stepped up, highlighted by a play in deep right-center field where Rauni Gallegos tracked down a long fly ball and made a diving catch to take away extra bases from the Coyotes.

Despite the strong start, the Matadors’ offense stalled late in the game. Southern Nevada rallied in the final inning, scoring three runs to secure a 4-2 victory. The Matadors move to 28-17 overall and an even 12-12 in the conference at the day's conclusion.