Vikings Explode for 14 Runs in Comeback Win Over Rio Hondo

The Long Beach City College softball team dominated the Rio Hondo College Roadrunners with a 14-6 South Coast Conference victory last Thursday afternoon.

"This team has what it takes-from 1-22, they can get the job done," said Head Coach and Director of Softball Operations Megan Martinez. "I am excited for our future."

Rio Hondo struck first in the second inning, capitalizing on a bases-loaded walk and a three-run double to jump ahead 4-0. However, the Vikings wasted no time responding. In the bottom of the frame, catcher Madison Ramon's two-run single put Long Beach on the board, followed by second baseman Haleigh Jacobs' sacrifice groundout to trim the deficit to 4-3. Third baseman Michelle Cervantes then delivered an RBI single to tie the game before first baseman Anaya Togia's two-run double gave the Vikings their first lead at 6-4. Designated player Hailey Harris capped off the explosive inning with a two-run single, extending the lead to 8-4.

After a tough start, Long Beach brought in Adalise Valenzuela (4-0) into the circle, who steadied the game and secured the win. She threw four strong innings, allowing just two runs on five hits while striking out two.

Rio Hondo fought back in the third with an RBI single, but Long Beach continued to apply pressure. The Vikings tacked on two more runs in the bottom of the third with a Roadrunner error and a sacrifice fly from Cervantes, pushing their lead to 10-5.

Despite a Rio Hondo RBI double in the fourth, Long Beach answered right back, as Jacobs' two-run single widened the gap to 12-6. The Vikings sealed the win in the fifth when short stop Jaela Ruiz laced a two-run double, capping off a mercy win for a final score of 14-6.

"I was in the exact position that I wanted to be in for my team," said Ruiz. "I am so glad I could get the job done."

The Vikings will be traveling to Riverside City College on Monday, February 24 at 3 p.m. for their next game.