SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The UC Riverside softball team put a close to their 2021 season on Sunday afternoon at Campus Diamond, falling 3-1 to UC Santa Barbara in the season finale.

The Highlanders end their season at 7-26 overall and 6-18, but not without the upward trajectory that head coach Nikki Palmer saw out of her team throughout the season. 

"This team is special and they never quit, which is what will serve us moving into next year," Palmer said.

UC Riverside threatened early in the season finale, loading the bases in a second inning that started with Kennedi Sorensen's 11th double of the year and her second in as many games. 

Sorensen advanced to third after Leah Brito reached on an error, followed by Marissa Burk slapping a single to shortstop.

Gianna Araki brought the Highlanders within a run in the sixth inning on a solo home run to right center, her fourth of the season as part of her 2-for-3 performance on the day.

UCR loaded up the bases once more shortly after Araki's home run, starting with Allison Troche roping a double to left field. 

 "We were dealt a lot of really difficult and unfortunate cards this year and our team never dropped their heads," Palmer said. "They worked hard, stayed together and pushed to the last out. I'm proud of our efforts and passion on a very difficult year, and we look forward to how these valuable experiences will serve us next season."