Box Score RIVERSIDE, Calif. – The UC Riverside Highlanders jumped out to an early lead and held strong in the circle, securing a 4-2 victory over California Baptist in Crosstown Showdown.

The Highlanders (4-3) showcased a balanced offensive attack, with Kamryn Davis leading the way. The outfielder went a perfect 4-for-4 at the plate, scoring two runs. Mariana Palazuelos added three hits, including an RBI double, while Leilani Juan provided the biggest swing of the game with a two-run double in the third.

"Beating the cross town rival is always fun! The pitchers did a great job tonight and really showed up for the team," said coach Brittney Matta. "We had some players get opportunities tonight and they all played really well."

UC Riverside wasted no time getting on the board, capitalizing on a defensive miscue in the first inning as Davis came around to score. Moments later, Kahunahana crossed the plate on a double down the left field line from Palazuelos, giving UC Riverside a 2-0 lead.

In the third inning, the Highlanders extended their advantage when Juan laced a double to left center, driving in Palazuelos and Davis to make it 4-0.

From there, the Highlanders' pitching took control. Brooke Perez (1-1) took over in the fourth and shut the door, tossing four scoreless innings while scattering three hits and striking out three to earn the win. She was sharp in relief, throwing 53 strikes over 79 pitches.

UC Riverside finished with 10 hits on the day, including extra-base hits from Palazuelos, Juan, and Rebeca Cabezas.

The Highlanders head to Stanford to open the Cardinal Classic this Friday as they take on both Portland State (12:30pm) and Stanford (6pm).