Cougars Battle Back to Earn Split Against Siskiyous at Home

Lassen College showed resilience and toughness during a hard-fought conference doubleheader against College of the Siskiyous on April 3. After dropping a competitive opener 7-4, the Cougars answered with an emotional comeback victory in game two, rallying late for an 8-7 win to split the day and continue proving they could compete with anyone in the conference.

Kaawa-Kawai’s Late Blast Sparks Lassen Rally in Opener

Despite falling 7-4 in game one, Lassen showed fight throughout the contest and nearly erased a late deficit behind a powerful sixth-inning rally. Jhan'z Kaawa-Kawai provided the biggest swing of the game, crushing a three-run home run that brought the Cougars back within striking distance after trailing by six runs.

Lilinoe Kuhaulua-Leong continued her strong season with a hit, two walks, and an RBI, while Zoey Heffelfinger doubled and scored a run. Although the Cougars managed only three hits, they constantly pressured Siskiyous by drawing 10 walks and forcing the visitors to work through traffic all afternoon.

Abby Lynn battled through seven innings in the circle, allowing just two earned runs despite Siskiyous collecting 10 hits. Defensive miscues proved costly during a five-run third inning that shifted momentum, but Lassen never stopped competing and continued to fight until the final out. The late comeback attempt showcased the toughness that had become a trademark of the Cougar program.

Cougars Rally Late to Earn Huge Comeback Victory

Game two turned into one of the most exciting wins of the season as Lassen erased multiple deficits to secure an 8-7 comeback victory. After trailing 7-2 midway through the game, the Cougars exploded offensively over the final two innings and shut the door defensively to complete the rally.

Emma Wayas delivered a massive performance, finishing 2-for-4 with two RBIs and two runs scored, while Taylor Lauritsen added two hits, an RBI, and scored twice. Nadia Velazquez also came through in a huge moment, ripping a triple and driving in two runs to help ignite the comeback. Lassen capitalized on defensive mistakes by Siskiyous while continuing to apply pressure throughout the lineup.

In the circle, Lauren Emery was outstanding in relief. After entering with the Cougars trailing, Emery threw three scoreless innings to stabilize the game and give Lassen the chance to rally. Ramona Ryder battled early against a hot Siskiyous lineup that finished with 13 hits and two home runs, but the Cougar offense answered with timely hitting and clutch execution late. The comeback win showed the heart and grit of a Lassen team that refused to quit on its home field.