SANTA MARIA – Coming off its highest-scoring game of the year at LA Pierce, the SBCC softball team fell just one run short on Thursday at Pershing Park in a 4-3 defeat to Allan Hancock.
After falling behind 3-0, the Vaqueros (12-6, 2-3) got themselves within striking distance with a pair of runs in the bottom of the fifth. Shortstop Delaney Neely brought in runs from right fielder Julianna Ortiz and center fielder Lauren Indermuehle with a big two-RBI single to make it 3-2.
The Bulldogs (9-4, 3-2) doubled their advantage late with a single and a double on their first three at bats in the top of the seventh. Pitcher Joslyn Soinila helped get the defense out of the inning, not allowing another runner on base the rest of the way.
Needing two runs to extend the game, SBCC got out to a good start in the bottom of the seventh. Catcher Mackenzie Ensign led off with a single and third baseman Emma Hatcher walked. Two batters later, Indermuehle loaded the bases with a single. Neely earned her third RBI of the game on a sac fly to center field, but as Hatcher scored, the defense was able to pick up the final out at third base, ending the game.
The Vaqueros will have a week between games, resuming WSC play against Moorpark on Thursday, March 16 at 2:30 p.m. at Pershing Park.
