April 16, 2003
BERKELEY, Calif. - The Santa Clara University softball team fell to seventh-ranked California 4-0 this evening at Levine-Fricke Field. After two rain delays, the game was called in the sixth inning. Santa Clara's overall record goes to 20-19, while the Bears' record improves to 35-12.
Santa Clara pitcher Jaime Forman-Lau allowed 5 hits in the loss, while the Broncos managed two hits in the game. Both teams recorded one error.
Third baseman Vanessa Werner singled in the first inning for the Broncos, but the visitors weren't able to get their offense going again until the fifth. During that time, Cal went ahead 1-0 with a lead-off home run in the fourth by catcher Courtney Scott.
With two outs in the top of the fifth, designated player Rachel Sherman reached base on balls for the Broncos, and advanced one base from catcher Roni Rivera's single up the middle. A Bear fielding error loaded the bases, but Cal was able to escape, picking off a Bronco runner.
The Bears put the game out of reach with three runs in the bottom half of that frame. Outfielder Kaleo Eldredge singled down the left field line for two RBIs, as the bases were loaded when two Bears were walked and one was hit by a pitch. Scott followed with an RBI single for the final score.
The game was called with one out in the bottom of the sixth due to rain.
Santa Clara returns to Pacific Coast Softball Conference action with two doubleheaders against San Diego this weekend. The Broncos will host the Toreros (6-30, 1-7 PCSC) on Friday and Saturday afternoon. Both games will take place at Marsalli Park with first pitches at noon.
