STERLING, Kan. — Sterling swept Kansas Wesleyan in the Lady Warriors conference opener on Tuesday, March 10. Sterling started with a 3-0 victory in game one followed by a 7-2 win in game two.
Game 1
Sterling secured a 3-0 victory over Kansas Wesleyan in a game highlighted by strong pitching and timely hitting with Macaela Ambriz pitching a complete game, allowing only three hits and striking out five batters to earn the shutout.
In the first inning, Mariah Cunningham opened the scoring with a solo home run to center field, giving Sterling an early lead.
The third inning saw further success for the Lady Warriors as Olivia Wright singled and later scored on a double to left field by M. Cunningham. This pushed Sterling’s lead to 2-0 by the end of the inning.
In the fourth inning, Alessandra Ambriz singled and advanced on a sacrifice bunt by Ashley Johnson. Maria Casillas then doubled to right center, driving in A. Ambriz to extend the lead to 3-0.
Sterling’s defense and pitching, led by M. Ambriz, held Kansas Wesleyan scoreless throughout the remainder of the game. Sterling maintained its 3-0 advantage through the seventh inning.
Macaela Ambriz delivered a standout performance on the mound for Sterling, pitching a complete game shutout over 7 innings. She allowed just three hits and two walks while striking out five batters. Her command and efficiency were key factors in securing the victory.
Mariah Cunningham recorded two hits, including a home run and a double, driving in two runs. Olivia Wright added two hits, including a double, and scored a run. Maria Casillas contributed with a double and an RBI, reaching base twice with a walk.
Game 2
The Lady Warriors secured a 7-2 victory over the Coyotes, capitalizing on 11 hits, including three doubles. The first inning set an assertive tone for Sterling. Mallory Seidel and M. Cunningham both singled, setting the stage for A. Ambriz to double to center field, driving in two runs. Casillas added another with a single down the left line, scoring A. Ambriz. The score stood at 3-0 after the first inning.
In the fourth inning, Sterling capitalized on defensive errors by Kansas Wesleyan. After reaching base on a fielding error, M. Cunningham later stole second and scored alongside Wright on a double by Cheyenne Cunningham. By the end of the inning, Sterling had extended its lead to 6-1.
The sixth inning saw Mya’ Dunn doubling to left center and later scoring on a single by Seidel, pushing the lead to 7-2. This score held firm through the seventh inning, culminating in a decisive triumph for Sterling with a final score of 7-2.
Maria Casillas pitched 5 innings, allowing four hits and one earned run while striking out three batters and walking one. Victoria Perez contributed with 2 innings of relief, giving up three hits and no runs, striking out two and issuing one walk. Together, Casillas and Perez limited the Coyotes’ opportunities, combining for 5 strikeouts and maintaining a strong defensive presence on the mound.
Mallory Seidel recorded three hits and drove in one run, contributing significantly to the offense. Mariah Cunningham scored two runs and stole one base, showcasing her effectiveness on the bases. Cheyenne Cunningham hit a double and collected two RBIs, providing key offensive support.
Sterling College (7-15, 2-0) will be back in action at Ottawa, Kan. in a doubleheader against Ottawa University (12-9, 0-0) with the first game to begin at 1 p.m.
Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch the Warriors’ live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.
