March 7, 2008

Box Score

Hayward - California kicked off the National Invitational Softball Tournament (NIST) with a 9-3 win over the Boston College Eagles at the Alden E. Oliver Sports Park in Hayward on Friday. Cal defeated Tennessee State in the latter game to improve to 17-8 overall.

Cal received huge offensive contributions from Gina Leomiti (2-for-4, two RBI, two runs), Bernice Masaniai (2-for-4, two RBI, two runs), Sanoe Kekahuna (1-for-3, two runs), Taylor Kelly (2-for-3, two RBI) and Brittany LaRosa (three RBI).

LaRosa and Arioto were stellar in the circle once again, keeping the BC bats at bay. The duo combined to allow just four hits with 10 strikeouts.

The Bears bounced back from a 1-0 deficit with a three-run burst in the top of the second inning. Masaniai and Kekhuna reached on an error and a fielder's choice respectively, before Kelly was walked to load the bases with one out. One batter later, LaRosa delivered with a bases clearing double to put Cal on top, 3-1.

Cal's offense continued to light up the scoreboard with four more runs in the top of the third frame. Erika Racklin, who reached on an error leading off the inning, didn't stay on base for long. The senior speedster stole second base and crossed home plate after a Leomiti single to the outfield. Masaniai then followed with a two-run home run (Leomiti scored) to give Cal a 6-1 lead. The Bears tacked on another run when Kelly punched a single to plate Kekahuna.

Leomiti also got into the home run act with a solo shot in the fourth inning.