Rustlers Walk It Off in Extra-Inning Thriller, Defeat LA Valley 3-2

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. — The Golden West College softball team delivered a dramatic finish in its home opener, walking off with a thrilling 3-2 victory over LA Valley College in eight innings on Wednesday afternoon.

With the game tied 2-2 in the bottom of the eighth, Reggi Frei reached base and advanced into scoring position before Sara Aguilar played hero, beating out an infield single to shortstop that brought Frei home for the game-winning run. The Rustlers (2-0) mobbed Aguilar at first base as they celebrated their second straight win to start the season.

Golden West took an early lead in the second inning when Candice DeMayo drove in Isabella Santiago with an RBI single to center. The Rustlers extended their advantage to 2-0 in the fifth when Santiago ripped an RBI double to right center, scoring Mya Santiago.

LA Valley (0-5-1) fought back in the sixth, tying the game on a clutch two-run single from Francesca Vega. However, Golden West's pitching duo of Natalie Tonche and Angelique Perez kept the Monarchs at bay. Tonche delivered six solid innings, allowing two runs on seven hits while striking out four. Perez (2-0) took over in the seventh and shut the door, tossing two scoreless frames with two strikeouts to earn the win.

The Rustlers' offense collected 11 hits, with Isabella Santiago leading the way, going 3-for-3 with a double, a run, and an RBI. Mya Santiago added two doubles, while Frei showcased her speed with two stolen bases.

LA Valley had nine hits but couldn't capitalize on key opportunities. Monarchs' starter Kristjana Lewis Jr. (0-3) went the distance, striking out six but allowing the game-winning run in the eighth.

Golden West will travel to LA Harbor on Monday, February 3^rd for a 2:30pm first pitch.