Seventh inning surge powers Leilehua over Kalani

Brien Ing | SL

Leilehua scored seven big runs with two outs in the seventh inning to notch a 9-2 victory over Kalani at McKinley Tiger Softball Stadium.

"it was really good for us because our bats have been kind of slow," added Leong. "But we've been picking it up recently at the perfect time."

The offensive outburst in the top of the final inning broke up what was quite the pitching duel between the Mules' Breeann Leong and Falcons' starter Christen Horita, as the pair spaced just two runs each over six innings of work.

Leong helped her own cause with a two-run laser over the right field fence, only her second home run of the year but the second in as many games.

"I just wanted to make it easier for our team and our defense," said Leong of her home run.

A bases-clearing double by Trislynn Panganoran capped off the inning for the Mules, part of a 4 for 5 performance at the plate for the second baseman.

Kalani had more than a few chances to take the advantage but just couldn't capitalize.

They threatened in a big way in the bottom of the fourth, with runners on second and third and two outs. Kiani Hashiba laced a looping fly ball to right that looked all but certain to drop in for a run-scoring single, but Jerine Nartatez made a diving stab at the ball and secured the out to end the inning. The Falcons also stranded a runner at third in the fifth and another at second in the sixth, both representing go-ahead scores.

Every batter sent to the plate for the Mules contributed either a hit, a run scored or an RBI.

Leong allowed just four hits in the contest, walking three and striking out two to earn the victory. The Mules' defense played well behind the freshman pitcher, in particular the aforementioned Nartatez in the outfieid and shortstop Torie Au, who accounted for more than her fair share of ground ball outs throughout.

"I just think it was good that it brought up our confidence," remarked Leong of the victory. "So we'll be more ready for the upcoming games."

Up next for the state tournament bound Mules is a familiar foe in West top seed Mililani, who advanced to the league semifinals after a forfeit by Pearl City.

In the two meetings this season, the Trojans notched a pair of double-digit wins over the Mules, most recently an 11-1 win on April 21.