by Josh Lowden
(La Canada) – La Canada survived a seventh inning Temple City threat to hang on and win, beating the Rams 1-0 to clinch at least a tie for the Rio Hondo League title.
The Spartans saw their undefeated league season in jeopardy in the seventh after an error on a Jasmine Lewis bunt loaded the bases with only one out. Lauren O’Leary, who put on another stellar performance, proceeded to strike out Emily Brassfield for the second out.
Jessica Loiacano, who was on third base, tried to tie things up, attempting to steal home after an attempt to pick her off at third.
Aubri Thompson had other plans.
Thompson made a perfect throw to home, allowing Catherine Horner to tag out Loiacano for the final out and the win.
“They played it calm…. and they did exactly what they were supposed to do.” said La Canada coach KC Matthews. “That’s not coached during the game, that’s just them knowing how to handle the situation well.”
After a slow start, Anna Edwards finally got the Spartans on the board in the third inning. With two outs, Edwards hit a bomb over the centerfield fence for a 1-0 lead.
“Anna’s been huge for four years. Games like today when she comes through, she comes through,” said Matthews.
La Canada had a chance to extend their lead in the fourth. With two outs and Thompson on base, Shirley Drange hit the ball all the way to the back fence for a double. After a strong throw from Jessica Doi, catcher Sami Jakeway was able to tag Thompson out at home.
O’Leary dominated on the mound, finishing with 10 strike outs and only allowing one hit up until the seventh inning. She struck out the side in both the second and third innings.
For Temple City, Sophomore Jenny Pegg finished with four strike outs and allowed five hits.
“That game was fun to play,” said Temple City coach Bob Ellingsworth. “My sophomore pitcher is starting to step up. My outfield, which has been suspect all year, stepped up and played great this game.”
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