RIVERSIDE, Calif. - The La Sierra University Golden Eagles conference opener saw a strong performance, splitting the day with Simpson University with a 3-1 win and a 1-0 loss.

In the game one win, Golden Eagles pitching dominated with Jennifer Govea throwing for 5.1 innings, giving up only four hits and one run while striking out seven. Govea remained perfect throughout the first three innings, striking out the side in the first, and picking up 6 of her 7 strikeouts through the first three.

Shelbie Debenedetti came in as reliever, closing the game strongly by holding the Red Hawks hitless over 1.2 innings and picking up the save.

Victoria Esparza, Mia Franco, and Raeanna Garcia played crucial roles in scoring runs for the Golden Eagles. The team's offensive efforts were supported by Alexis Cook and Renee Sena, who each contributed with vital RBI singles in the third and fifth innings.

The game's turning points came early with a fielding error by Simpson to score Victoria Esparza for the first Golden Eagle run. Momentum continued with Sena who singled to right field, scoring Franco and ensuring the win. An insurance run came in the fifth off a single from Garcia, a timely sac bunt by Franco to advance the runner into scoring position, to then bring up Cook who singled to center scoring Garcia. Simpson managed to score their only run in the sixth inning, but it wasn't enough to overcome the solid performance by the Golden Eagles.

Game two was equally pressing from both sides of the field. The lone run came early in the game from Simpson University. Combined pitching efforts from Alexandra Aguilar, Hanna Dobbs, and Debenedetti kept the Red Hawks scoreless after the first inning.

Defensively, both teams showcased strong performances. La Sierra's defense was notably consistent, making significant plays that kept the game within reach until the very end. As the innings progressed, the Golden Eagles found themselves with multiple runners on base but were unable to capitalize on these opportunities.

Sena, Hailey Marquez, Annica Carrion, and Mekaila Smith were the four Golden Eagle hits in game two. The Golden Eagles had an opportunity to score in the bottom of the seventh with two runners in scoring position, but Simpson defense remained tight keeping La Sierra at bay.

The Golden Eagles continues their series against Simpson University Monday, March 10 for a double header starting at 11 am.