ST. GEORGE, Utah--Rayla Jacobs-Kea ripped a three-run double in the bottom of the sixth inning to break open a tight game, sending the Hawai`i Hilo Vulcans to an win over Metro State (Colo.) at the Dixie State Courtyard Classic on Friday afternoon.
The win gave the Vulcans a Friday sweep, as they also defeated Chadron State, 19-0, in the morning. The Vulcans leave the Canyons Softball Complex for the day with a 4-3 overall record, while the Roadrunners fall to 1-7.
Jacobs-Kea emptied the bases with her shot to left field, giving the Vulcans a big cushion from their 5-4 lead. Earlier in the inning,
Kiarra Lincoln's single drove home
Vevesi Liilii with the go-ahead run, after Metro State had tied the game in the top of the fifth on Darby McGhee's two-run home run.
With the lead in hand,
Leah Gonzales came out of the bullpen to pitch two excellent innings to pick up her first win of the season (1-1) to go with her two saves. She didn't allow a run, struck out one and gave up just one scratch hit.
Earlier, the Vulcans used
Markie Okamoto's two-run homer, and RBI-singles by
Kimberly Olivas and Liilii to take a 4-2 lead.
Jacobs-Kea had two hits and the three RBI, and Liilii was a perfect 3-for-3 in the game.
Danielle Antolin had the same 3-for-3 line and also scored two runs.
Valerie Alvardo started in the pitching circle for the Vulcans, allowing four runs in five innings of work.
The Vulcans will wrap up play in the Dixie State Courtyard Classic on Saturday with a 12:30 p.m. (Mountain time) clash with defending RMAC champion Colorado Mesa.
