Against Fountain Valley, Penna again pitched a tremendous game in the 9-1 victory. NM was led on offense by Caviston, with a home run, three RBIs and two runs scored, and Penna, who homered and drove in three runs. On defense, shortstop Kate Thompson made several plays to keep Fountain Valley off the base paths.
Newport Mesa then played its third elimination game of the day, facing Santa Ana. In a hard-fought game, Newport Mesa emerged victorious, 7-3. Jordan Blanchfield, who scored twice, and Alyssa Delacio, who drove in three runs, led the offense. Third baseman Kathy Fisher made several key plays to help pitcher Penna win her third game of the day.
In the quarterfinals, Newport Mesa faced a strong team from Redondo Beach. Again, Penna pitched well in the 7-3 victory. On offense, Blanchfield and Caviston each scored two runs. On defense, outfielders Cassidy George, Mariah Cruz and Shea Horvath contributed.
In addition, second baseman Karley Johnston and shortstop Gerdau — who contributed several plays, including throwing out a runner at the plate on a relay throw from deep left field — were key defensive players.
In the semifinal game, again against Pico Rivera, Newport Mesa jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the top of the first inning. Gerdau led off with a single, followed by a bunt single by Blanchfield. Penna doubled to drive in two runs and then scored on a single by George. Pico Rivera rallied for four runs in the bottom of the first and the stage was set for an exciting see-saw battle, which ended with a 7-5 Pico Rivera victory. Caviston led Newport Mesa on offense with two home runs and catcher Delacio played flawless behind the plate, playing with a badly sprained right hand.
This is the second year in a row that Newport Mesa has qualified for the state tournament. Last year, the 10U team qualified for state and finished third.
