OPENING STATEMENT

Tuesday, May 3

Riverside

7:00 PM

California Baptist University

Vanguard University (Calif.)

5/4/2011 5:27:00 AM | Softball

RIVERSIDE, Calif. --- Despite a host of controversy to open No. 1 California Baptist University's first GSAC Postseason Tournament game, the Lancers made a convincing statement with a 9-1, five-inning victory over fifth-seeded Vanguard.

Emma Holden was called for six illegal pitches in the second inning, leading to the Lions' lone run. Courtney McGee replaced Holden to start the third inning and completed the combined no-hitter, moving to 9-0 on the season with the victory.

“It is sad that calls like that can affect a game so much and take it out of the hands of the players,” said Head Coach Mike Smith, who was ejected in that second inning. “We have had no real problems with illegal pitches all season, except for tonight.”

The Lancers offense succeeded, however, in making sure the game was decided on the field, scoring in each inning.

Mara Rodriguez led the charge for CBU, driving in two of the team's first three runs. CBU's All-Conference outfielder had a single in the first inning, a double in the second and another single in the third, en route to a 3-for-3, three RBI day.

Nicole Shoemaker put the finishing touches on the victory, smashing her second home run of the season. Shoemaker's two-run shot in the fourth gave the Lancers the 9-1 lead and allowed McGee to close the game out in the fifth.

Tina Galinato had a two-run double in the contest, and Briana Corral went 2-for-3 with two runs scored and an RBI triple.

“It's good to see the girls respond to the adversity the way they did,” said Smith. “I think it maybe fired them up a little bit and they took it out at the plate.”

McGee struck out three and walked just one in her three innings of work. Holden struck out four batters in her two innings.

“It was really disappointing to see Emma have to leave the game like that,” said Smith. “You hate to see one of your players on the wrong end of calls like those. On the other side though, Courtney pitched great and did an excellent job to come in and settle that game down.”

The Lancers lead the best-of-three, opening round series 1-0 with the win and will look to close end the Lions season at 5 p.m. tomorrow. If necessary, a third game will be played at 7 p.m.

CBU is eyeing its third-straight GSAC Tournament title after claiming its eighth-straight regular season crown.

The Lancers are now 56-3 on the season, while Vanguard falls to 26-31. The Lions picked up a win earlier in the day, defeating Biola in the opening game to earn the right to face CBU.