HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. – The Golden West College Rustlers (3-2) split their home doubleheader against the Grossmont College Griffins (1-5) on Friday, dropping a tight 7-6 contest in Game 1 before bouncing back with a dominant 14-1 victory in Game 2 at the GWC Softball Complex.

Game 1: Grossmont 7, Golden West 6

The Rustlers mounted a valiant comeback effort but fell just short in the opener. Grossmont jumped out to an early lead, plating three runs in the first inning, highlighted by an RBI single from Katelynne Parent and an RBI triple from Kate Manes. The Griffins tacked on another run in the second and three more in the third, extending their lead to 7-0.

Golden West responded in the bottom of the third when Sara Aguilar's two-run single capitalized on a Grossmont error, cutting the deficit to 7-2. The Rustlers rallied again in the sixth, scoring four runs, including an RBI double by Reggi Frei and a sacrifice fly from Mya Santiago. However, their comeback fell just short as Grossmont pitcher Gracie Johnston (1-4) closed out the complete game, allowing six runs (three earned) while striking out eight.

For Golden West, Angelique Perez was stellar in relief, tossing 4.2 shutout innings, striking out five, and allowing just four hits.

Game 2: Golden West 14, Grossmont 1 (5 Innings)

The Rustlers flipped the script in Game 2 with an explosive first inning, scoring 11 runs to put the game out of reach early. Allyssa DeMayo's bases-clearing double and Mya Santiago's three-run single headlined the offensive outburst, as Golden West took full advantage of Grossmont's early struggles.

Golden West continued to pour it on, adding runs in the second and fourth innings, while Desyree Arizmendi (1-0) dominated in the circle. The freshman right-hander tossed four innings of one-run ball, striking out four and scattering seven hits. Santiago took over in the fifth and retired the side to seal the victory via the mercy rule.

Offensively, the Rustlers collected 10 hits, with Santiago leading the way with four RBIs. DeMayo added three RBIs, while Miriam Talstein chipped in two.

Golden West will look to build on their momentum when they return to action next week. The Rustlers' next matchup is set for Tuesday at home against Mt. San Jacinto College at 2pm.