SAN MARCOS - The UBC Thunderbirds split the second day of action at the Cougar Clash hosted by Cal State San Marcos on Friday, dropping a 9-0 decision to the host Cougars before closing the day with a 10-2 win over Hope International
UBC was no match for no. 8 ranked CSUSM with their speed, power, and pitching. NAIA All-American Brenda Sandberg tossed a five inning no hitter and her only blemish was walking the first batter.
It was 2-0 for San Marcos in the bottom fourth when the hosts below the game opens with five runs. They were led by Alyssa Dronenburg who went 3-for-3 with one walk and six RBI.
The start to the day's second game wasn't much better, as HIU raced out to a 2-0 lead following a lead-off walk and a two-run home run by Michelle Rivas.
UBC tied the game in bottom of the second when rookie Cassandra Dypychey drove a ball at the HIU shortstop who misplayed the ball, allowing Jess Hodge and
Molly Gosnell to score. In the third inning, Gosnell hit a double to the right-centre fence, driving in
Tanya McLean and Hodge to put UBC ahead for good.
The 'Birds continued their offensive show in the bottom of the fourth with
Courtney O'Connor hitting a towering grand slam home run to left-centre. UBC's success at the dish continued with Hodge and Gosnell driving in two more runs to to make it 10-2.
In the top of the 5th Hope International loaded the bases with two out but
Leigh Della Siega struck out the batter to end the game. The UBC rookie pitcher went the distance for the win, allowing five hits.
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