Cerritos College used a three-run fourth inning to surge ahead and held off a late push to defeat LA Mission, 5-4, in conference softball action.
The Falcons (23-5) collected eight hits on the day and overcame an early deficit by capitalizing on timely hitting and a key defensive miscue.
LA Mission struck first in the opening inning, taking advantage of an RBI groundout by Melanie Mora to grab a 1-0 lead. Cerritos answered in the bottom half, tying the game when Marley Cortez crossed the plate.
The Eagles regained the lead in the third on an RBI single from Mora, but once again the Falcons responded. Cortez delivered an RBI single to even the score at 2-2.
LA Mission continued to apply pressure in the fourth, reclaiming a 3-2 advantage behind an RBI single from Erika Deniz. However, the Falcons put together their निर्णing rally in the bottom half of the inning.
Luna Villa tied the game with an RBI single, and Alia Colon followed with another run-scoring hit to give Cerritos its first lead of the day. Moments later, the Falcons added an insurance run when a fielding error allowed Colon to score, extending the lead to 5-3.
Cortez paced the offense, going 2-for-2 with an RBI and a run scored, while Villa and Colon each drove in a run. Carissa Amaya also contributed with a hit and a run scored.
In the circle, Mia Star Miramontes started and allowed two runs over three innings. Tatyana Cortez earned the win in relief, improving to 23-5 after tossing four innings and limiting the damage despite surrendering a late home run.
Cerritos will look to continue its strong play as it heads into its final round of conference play.
