The Long Beach City College softball squad dominated Citrus College with a convincing 5-0 shutout victory this Tuesday. Securing their second consecutive shutout, the Vikings kicked off the season with a perfect 2-0 record.
Pitcher Bayleigh Fry (2-0) took control on the mound, allowing only four hits and striking out nine Owls in a stellar seven-inning performance. The Vikings and Owls battled to a scoreless tie for the initial five innings.
"I think our defense came out super strong," said Bayleigh Fry. "I felt great in the circle, it was a pitcher's game until the bottom of the sixth. At that point, I saw our lineup come alive and hit like we know how to."
In the bottom of the sixth, the Vikings broke the deadlock with bases loaded. Right fielder Alynna Gonzalez stepped up, delivering a clutch 2 RBI single that brought in pinch runner Julianna Chavez and center fielder Robin Garcia.
Maintaining the offensive rhythm, third baseman Alejandra Mota contributed with a sacrifice fly, scoring designated player Villanueva. Catcher Breanna Lucero followed suit with an RBI double, bringing in Gonzalez. Left fielder Natalie Wilson then singled to center, scoring in Lucero, sealing the 5-0 shutout triumph.
"It took everyone not just one person," said Alynna Gonzalez. "It was a team win and it always feels good to have our pitcher's back."
The Vikings look to carry their momentum into the upcoming doubleheader against Grossmont on Friday, Feb. 2, starting at noon.
