Hawks Unable to Pull Out a Win Over No. 15 Sierra in Big 8 Double Header

The Cosumnes River College softball team dropped both games of a Big 8 Conference doubleheader against No. 15 Sierra on Saturday, falling 9-1 in Game 1 and 10-2 in Game 2.

In the opener, Sierra jumped out early and never looked back, scoring two runs in the first inning and adding to their lead with a three-run third and two-run fourth. Cosumnes River managed to break through in the fifth inning, highlighted by a triple from Nina Najafizadeh, who later came around to score. Despite collecting four hits in the game, the Hawks were unable to generate sustained offense.

Najafizadeh led the Hawks at the plate, going a perfect 2-for-2 with a triple and a run scored. Imani Black and Melinda Brian also contributed hits, while Faith Hahn recorded a sacrifice fly for the team's lone RBI. In the circle, Savanna Froke started and allowed five runs (four earned) over three innings of work.

Game 2 saw a tighter contest early, with Sierra holding just a 1-0 lead through four innings. The Hawks responded in the fifth inning, as Alexis Hoke drove in a run and Faith Hahn added another RBI to give Cosumnes River a brief spark. However, Sierra erupted for nine runs in the bottom of the sixth inning to pull away and secure the run-rule victory.

Ashley Garcia led the Hawks offensively in Game 2, going 2-for-3, while Hoke finished 1-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored. Hahn also drove in a run and added a stolen base. In the circle, Kaylena Ogle tossed 5.2 innings, striking out three but surrendering nine runs on nine hits.

Cosumnes River will look to bounce back in their next conference matchup as they continue Big 8 play.