By Robert Nilsen
CYPRESS, CA - No. 1 Cypress softball (44-0) came from behind and defeated Palomar College (29-12) 3-2 in 9 innings on Saturday morning. The Chargers were designated the away team for this game. With the win the Chargers advance to the Super Regional Final against Palomar College, who defeated Santiago Canyon 9-8 in their second game on Saturday afternoon.
State Pitcher of the Year Destiny Vasquez (26-0) threw her second complete game in as many days as she picked up the victory. Vasquez went 9 innings while allowing just 2 runs, including 1 earned run on 7 hits while striking out 4 Comets. Nicole Wise (1-for-4, 3 RBI) led the Chargers offense.
Crystal DesLauriers (23-6) received the loss for the Comets. DesLauriers threw a complete game and allowed just 3 runs on 3 hits while striking out 11 Chargers, but she also walked 7 batters and hit 5.
The Comets got on the board first in the bottom of the first inning. With 2 outs the Comets put 2 runners on with back-to-back base hits. Tiare PaoPao then grounded an RBI single past the glove of the shortstop to give the Comets a 1-0 lead.
The Chargers were able to break through in the top of the sixth inning. Kiani Puailoa led off the inning by reaching on an error. Then the Chargers loaded the bases after two batters were hit by pitches. With 2 outs Wise blooped a 2-run single into left field to give the Chargers a 2-1 lead.
The Comets were able to tie the game in the bottom of the sixth inning as they scored on an error with 1 out to make it 2-2.
With 2 on and 1 out in the top of the ninth inning DesLauriers intentionally walked Alexis Zavala to load the bases. Wise then hit an RBI groundout down the first base line, which allowed the go ahead run to score as the Chargers took a 3-2 lead. Vasquez then shut down the Comets in the bottom of the ninth inning to pick up the victory.
The Chargers will play the Comets tomorrow afternoon at 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM (if necessary).
Stay connected with the Chargers through social media. Follow Cypress College Athletics on Twitter @CypressChargers. Check in with the Chargers on Facebook/CypressChargers and on Instagram @CypressChargers.
