IRVINE, Calif. - Freshman shortstop Kaliya Yco provided a clutch solo shot to help No. 24 Concordia top Dominican in Saturday's matinee.

There was not one, but two pitching duels between the Golden Eagles and Penguins and the visitors were able to eke out the rematch as both teams settled for a split in their four-game series.

Game 1: No. 24 CUI 1, Dominican 0

Yco swung at the first pitch she saw leading off the bottom of the seventh. It was a fantastic decision as she delivered a walk-off home run to right field and rejoiced with her teammates at the plate after quickly circling the bases.

Senior pitcher Bella Calvo also pitched a gem in the circle. Calvo struck out eight batters and only allowed one hit on the afternoon while going over 110 pitches. She only allowed four base runners all game in one the best outings of her college career.

Kayla Rodgers also made a fantastic read and catch on a liner in the second inning to rob Dominican catcher Taylor Eby of a hit.

Game 2: Dominican 1, No. 24 CUI 0

Unfortunately for the Golden Eagles, it was a familiar script to how Friday's doubleheader went. After a fantastic finish for CUI in the first game of the day, Dominican rallied behind their ace pitcher Taylor Rodriguez in the second game. 

Despite a solid outing by Kira Morris, who pitched all seven innings and allowed only two measly hits and one earned run, Rodriguez improved to 13-3 by scattering four hits and keeping CUI from having a big inning.

There were only six hits combined between the two squads in this one, and both teams featured superb play by the outfield.  Eby had the only extra-base hit - a double - and that swing scored her teammate Karlin Manuel in the second inning to give Dominican the lead.

Yco led off the bottom of the seventh (again) and tried to work her magic. She successfully singled just past the pitcher to get things going. But after a failed bunt attempt, Dominican's defense was able to get a double play to end the game and preserve the 1-0 victory.

On deck for the Green and Gold is a Saturday date with Azusa Pacific at home. CUI will face APU for a doubleheader beginning at 12 p.m. on April 12.
 
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