DAVIS, Calif. — The finale of the NorCal Kickoff features the Saint Mary's Gaels (3-2) and the Cal Poly Mustangs (5-0), with the Mustangs besting the Gaels in an offensive slugfest 13-6. In a game that saw a combined 19 hits between the two sides, the Gaels were one inning away from making this an extra inning thriller, but a seven run top of the third from the Mustangs would prove to be the difference between the two squads, as Cal Poly would take this one by seven runs. 

Jenavee Amador and Marissa Montelongo both logged multi-hit ball games, with Amador logging a pair of RBI as well. Taylor Lane and Tori Cervantes each left the yard, adding to the offensive fireworks for the Gaels, who have scored at least five runs in each of their first five games. 

It was a staff day for the Gaels in the circle, with four of their five pitchers throwing in this game. The standout was freshman Mia Nishikawa, who tossed the final two innings scoreless, keeping the window of opportunity for the Gaels open to mount a late rally. Nishikawa faced the minimum of six batters over her two innings of work. 

SHE'S A POWER HITTER!
A year ago, Tori Cervantes announced herself as a sure handed shortstop and a streaky hitter at the plate, but this season, she has announced herself early as one of the Gaels top power hitters, leaving the yard three times over opening weekend. Tori demonstrated power to all fields, pulling two blasts over the left field fence, and one over the right field wall. Cervantes finished the weekend batting .400 (6-15) with a triple, three home runs and seven RBI. 

A SOLID TOURNEY
While the Gaels would've liked to take one against Cal Poly. The season has started on the right foot, with Saint Mary's only two losses to the undefeated Mustangs. The 3-2 start is the Gaels best since 2002. Hannah Ferguson and Marissa Montelongo have both opened the year with seven hits to lead the team, while Marissa Nishihara, Taylor Lane and Tori Cervantes all adding six. This has all been a part of an explosive offense that averaged six runs per game on the weekend. Meanwhile, the Gaels were able to see all five of their pitchers on roster toss at least an inning, all demonstrating abilities to deliver shutdown outings. 

UP NEXT
The Gaels will head to Fresno to take part in the Fresno State Kickoff Classic, starting Friday, February 16 with a matchup against Utah Valley. First pitch is set for 10 AM. 

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