TIME TO EAT

By Brandon Petersen

The Dubs are getting their bread.

And feasting.

Friday in Riverside, Westcliff Softball secured a road doubleheader sweep, defeating La Sierra 3-1 in the opener before completing the day with a 4-1 victory in Game 2 behind dominant pitching and timely execution.

The Warriors improved to 5-3 on the season by leaning on consistent pitching performances and opportunistic offense across both contests, limiting La Sierra to just two total runs despite being out-hit in each game.

"We were fundamentally sound defensively, our pitching staff remained strong, and we were able to produce clutch runs when we needed them," said head coach Brandon Wallace.

Game 1

Westcliff struck early in the opener, scoring twice in the first inning to take immediate control.

Rachel Varela delivered an RBI single to bring home Alyssa Patlan before Alyssa Lopez added a sacrifice fly to extend the lead to 2-0.

The Warriors added another run in the third when Madison Mendez executed a sacrifice bunt that allowed Patlan to score, pushing the advantage to 3-0.

Patlan set the tone offensively, finishing 2-for-4 with two runs scored and a triple, while Varela and Mendez each contributed key RBI plays.

In the circle, Jolene Miramontes earned the win after tossing 4.2 innings, allowing one run while navigating through traffic as La Sierra collected 10 hits. Cecelia Hogel closed the game with 2.1 scoreless innings to secure the save, striking out three and preserving the 3-1 victory.

Game 2

Westcliff completed the sweep behind a standout performance from Mendez, who threw a complete game while allowing just one unearned run and striking out eight.

La Sierra took a brief 1-0 lead in the first inning on an unearned run, but the Warriors responded in the second as aggressive baserunning and defensive miscues helped Westcliff tie the game before taking a 2-1 advantage.

The decisive moment came in the fifth inning when Sara Ellerton delivered a clutch two-RBI single to center field, extending the lead to 4-1. Ellerton finished with two hits and two RBIs to pace the offense.

Despite recording only three hits in the nightcap, Westcliff capitalized on opportunities and maintained pressure throughout, showcasing its ability to win in multiple ways.

"Cece Hogel really stood out today. She's been a great contributor from last weekend through this weekend. Cece always brings a great attitude and a team-first mindset," Wallace said.

With several players unavailable due to injury, Wallace credited the team's depth and collective focus for the sweep.

"We have several athletes out right now, but we also have players stepping up and believing in our process — let's get this bread," Wallace said.

Westcliff returns to action Thursday on the road at Simpson.