LA VERNE, CA – The University of La Verne softball team defeated Cal Lutheran 2-1 courtesy of a Janelle Vega walkoff single. Briana Vasquez also dazzled, recording her sixth complete game and seventh win of the season. 

The Leopards got the scoring started early in the first inning. Allie Colenzo led off the game with a single, stole second base, and advanced on a groundout to the pitcher. Brooke Petretti then grounded out to first base, and Colenzo scampered home to score the game's first run.

In the top half of the sixth, the Regals hit a single and double to tie the game at one, setting the stage for the Leopards in the seventh. The Leos got some gifts to help their rally, as Annica Luna was hit by the pitch, and Angelina Ratzlaff reached on an error. Pinch hitter Makayla Galaviz executed a perfect sacrafice bunt to move both runners in scoring position. With the shortstop and second baseman shifting to the right and left, Vega was able to hit a grounder up the middle and beat out the throw to lift La Verne to their sixth SCIAC win. 

Kylee Knight, Angelina Ratzlaff, Vega, and Colenzo combined for the four singles that the Leos needed for the win. Vasquez was excellent in the circle. The sophomore continues her strong campaign tossing seven innings with three punchouts, while allowing just one run on three hits.

Up next, the Leopards will continue the three game series with a Saturday double header in Thousand Oaks, with game one set for 12 p.m.