Costa Mesa, CA-Menlo Softball hit the road for their first conference games away from Wunderlich Field. The Oaks would play a two game series against the Lions of Vanguard and split the games for a 1-1 record on the day. Regardless, the Oaks put together two solid showings that the team can continue to build off of!

Game One: Menlo 3, Vanguard 0

The first game of the day was all Menlo both on offense and in the pitching circle. Brianna Gonzalez moved to 4-1 as a starting pitcher on the season thanks to a complete, seven inning performance. She faced 26 batters, tossed 93 total pitches and pitched a shutout. She would only allow five hits while striking out four batters and walking a single player. It was a good showing for Gonzalez who has racked up the wins so far this season. In the batters box it wasn't an offensive explosion but it was still an efficient day for the team. They would rack up six hits with Aliya Lubrin leading the way with two hits and an RBI. Alexandra Attard and Alyssa Donovan would provide the rest of the scoring punch for the Oaks with the teams other two RBIs!

Game Two: Menlo 7, Vanguard 8

Game two was a much higher scoring affair that saw the Oaks fight back from a 7-2 deficit but fall just short in the seventh inning. Once again Lubrin had another strong showing at the plate. After two hits and an RBI in game one, she added another two hits alongside three stolen bases and two runs scored. It was an outstanding two day performance for the freshman center fielder! While the Oaks freshman made some noise, three returning veterans also put together big performances starting off with Jolena Velasquez. Velasquez posted a game high three hits and three RBIs. Attard also had three hits with an RBI during the Oaks seventh inning rally. Lastly, Lara Edeker ended the day with three hits, a stolen base and a run scored. While the final result was not what Menlo was hoping for, the team displayed a level of fight that will serve them well as the season goes on. The Oaks may not win every game but they showed they won't go quietly on any given day.

 Up Next…

Menlo continues their southern California road trip with two more games tomorrow. This time they will be taking on Hope International as they look to get back to .500 in conference play!
 

Menlo College is currently a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and the Golden State Athletic Conference (GSAC). To learn more about Menlo Athletics visit www.menloathletics.com or follow Menlo Athletics on Instagram (@menloathletics), X (@MenloAthletics) or Facebook (Menlo College Athletic).