Los Angeles, CA – In a thrilling doubleheader clash on Bell Field, the Occidental softball team hosted the Chapman University Panthers, delivering many key moments of athleticism and competitive spirit that left fans on the edge of their seats.
Game 1: 7-5 Chapman
The opening game set the stage for the intense battle as both teams exchanged blows in a quest for dominance. Early on, the Tigers showed their resilience, matching the Panthers run for run in the first inning. Evelyn Lorch's clutch single down the middle drove in Alysha Wagner, leveling the score 1-1.
However, it was Chapman's mid-game surge that proved decisive. Capitalizing on opportunities in the third and fourth innings, the Panthers orchestrated a six-run offensive barrage, establishing a commanding lead of 7-2. Despite facing a daunting deficit, the Tigers refused to surrender. A late-game rally in the seventh inning, ignited by Lorch's powerful homer, injected a spark of hope as Oxy narrowed the game 7-5. Unfortunately, their comeback came a bit to late in the game and the Tigers were unable to stop the Panthers from taking the game.
Pitching prowess was on display from the Tigers, with Sam Alfaro and Ellery Mitchell combining efforts on the mound, tallying three strikeouts collectively.
Game 2: 2-0 Chapman
As the sun began to set on the diamond, anticipation reached a high for the second installment of the doubleheader showdown. In a defensive showcase, both squads highlighted their grit, with neither side able to break the deadlock until the fifth inning.
Despite the determined efforts by Wagner, Sophia Sui, Jordan Lebsock, and Sydney Crespo, the Tigers found themselves unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities, leaving running stranded on base. The Panthers found their opening in the fifth inning, notching the two runs to seize control, and the eventual win, of the game.
Pitching remained a focal point for Oxy, with Zada Day-Adams delivering a stellar performance on the mound, hurling a complete game and tallying four strikeouts.
