Softball

COUGARS CONTROL GECKOS TO OPEN SEASON

Academy blows out GW 21-5

by
GSPN
January 23, 2024

By Aloha Alisasis

The Academy Cougars started off their season with a statement after winning the ISA Girls Softball League season opener against the GW Geckos 21-5 Tuesday afternoon at the FD field.

The Cougars dominated, winning decisively as the umpire ended the game after the top of the 4th by the mercy rule. Mylie Butters, Madisyn Cruz and Zaeyah Tajalle scored early, creating a 3-0 lead. Despite a momentary pause from Geckos 3rd baseman Mikaela Santos, the Cougars quickly regained momentum, scoring five consecutive runs before the top of the 1st inning ended.

Cougars starting pitcher Sadie Guerrero struck out six in four innings to lead Academy over GW to open the season. (photo by Dj Foster)

In the bottom of the 1st, Cougars pitcher Sadie Guerrero controlled the game, striking out the first three batters and ending the inning ahead 8-0.

The second inning saw the Cougars securing a substantial 21-0 lead. Tajalle’s home run highlighted their performance, setting a strong tone for the season. The Geckos defense couldn’t stop the Cougars momentum, and the second inning ended with a commanding 21-0 lead.

Moving to the third inning, the Geckos started with Elaha Gumataotao walking to first. Despite a tough pitcher, Haley Aguon and Mikaela Santos were struck out. With the bases loaded, Aveyah Campos hit a strong shot, bringing all three runners home for a score of 21-3. Campos scored again, adjusting the score to 21-4.

As the third inning concluded, the Cougars maintained their lead. In the bottom of the third, Tahni-Joie Saldan walked up for the Cougars, but the Geckos quickly secured three outs with two pop flies and a grounder.

The fourth inning started with the Cougars getting their first out against the Geckos’ lead batter. Despite the Geckos scoring a run as Christine Bansil crossed home, making it 21-5, the Cougars swiftly executed a double play from pitcher to first, sealing three consecutive outs and ending the game.

OTHER GAME

The defending champion Guam High Panthers blanked the Okkodo Bulldogs 15-0 after three innings. Star pitcher Brinnlyn Hardt tossed a no-hitter in the shortened game, striking out eight of the nine batters she faced with no walks. She also went 3-for-3 with 3 RBI at the plate.

Rya Castro added three RBI for the Panthers.