Sterling Drops Doubleheader to Eagles

Kansas City, Mo- The Warriors traveled to Missouri for their second series of conference play, only to return with two losses against the Avila University Eagles. The Warriors were run-ruled in the first game but found more luck in the second game as time continued.

Game One- Sterling -1 Avila -10

In a fiery fourth inning, Avila scored seven runs against the Warriors, cutting the game short and taking the day's first win. The Eagles scored their first run after an error made by the Warriors catcher. The Warriors responded with a run of their own in the second inning, as Madilynn Green smacked a home run to kick off the inning, her first of the season. The Eagles came back in the bottom of the second with two runs, making it 3-1 in favor of the Eagles.

The third inning kept both teams on their toes, as both teams kept a tight defense against one another. In the fourth inning, the Eagles made their attack, scoring seven runs. The Warriors finally cut off the Eagles after two strikeouts, but by then it was too late. The Warriors were unable to score in the fifth inning, finishing the game at 10-1 for the Eagles.

Alyssa Mason and Adrianna Castillo shared the pitcher's mound this game. Mason pitched three innings, giving seven hits and five runs to the Coyotes and had three strikeouts. Castillo gave five hits and five runs and struck out two Coyote batters.

Game Two- Sterling -3 Avila -9

The Warriors found a bit more luck offense in game 2, but were unable to keep pace with the Eagles. The Warriors were kept short of their opportunities at bat in the first inning, whereas the Eagles scored four runs. The Warriors found their first run in the second inning, as Julia Beyale's walk turned into a run after Green's double to right field.

The Eagles responded with three runs in the third inning. The Warriors earned their second run in the fifth inning. Aiyana Campos doubled and advanced to third during Brennah Jimenez's single to center field. Alexis Hillhouse pinch-ran for Jimenez, and in a play of teamwork Hillhouse drew a throw stealing second base allowing Campos to score, Campos adding another run to the Warrior's score. The Eagles responded with two runs of their own in the fifth inning, making the score 9-2 in favor of the Eagles.

The sixth inning passed with zero runs. The Warriors made one final run in the seventh inning. Sam Araiza singled and was pinch-run by Sophie Waller. Waller advanced to second after Campos was hit by the pitch. Jimenez singled to center field, allowing the Warriors to load the bases. Sam Graham pinch-ran for Jimenez. On a sacrifice fly by Mason, Waller came in to score. Beyale grounded out on the next play, ending the game 3-9 in favor of the Eagles.

Allie Olivarria, Campos, and Maria Casillas shared the pitcher's mound in this game. Olivarria pitched three innings, giving seven up hits and seven runs. Campos gave up two runs on two hits. Casillas pitched two scoreless innings to close out the game for the Warriors.

The Warriors continue their conference play against McPherson College on March 29 on their home field. The first pitch is at 3 pm. They then travel to Wichita, Kan. against Friends University, starting at 3 pm.

Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch all of the Warriors' live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.