RIVERSIDE, Calif. – Despite matching Grand Canyon in hits, the UC Riverside Highlanders were unable to capitalize offensively in a 7-0 setback on Wednesday afternoon at Amy S. Harrison Field.

The Highlanders tallied eight hits on the day, including a 3-for-4 effort from Rebeca Cabezas, who opened the game with a double and added two more base knocks. Jackie Alday tripled to right center in the sixth, while Haley Saole, Mariana Palazuelos, Brooklyn Porter, and Jen Ragay each added hits to highlight UCR's offensive depth.

UC Riverside put runners on base in nearly every inning but couldn't break through against a trio of GCU pitchers. The Lopes scored in three consecutive innings from the third through fifth to build their lead, taking advantage of walks and timely hits to drive in seven total runs.

The Highlanders return to Big West Conference play this weekend as the host Cal State Northridge on Friday, March 28th for a doubleheader with first pitch set for 1pm.