The Ayala Bulldogs proved once again that they’re built for the postseason, outlasting the Murrieta Mesa Rams 3-2 in a thrilling extra-inning battle in the second round of the CIF Southern Section Division 1 Softball Playoffs on Saturday.

The game was tied 2-2 heading into the bottom of the eighth when senior McKenzy Becerra stepped to the plate and delivered in clutch fashion. With the winning run on base, Becerra ripped an RBI double to seal the walk-off win and send the home crowd into a frenzy.

Ayala (21-2) has won 16 straight games and remains dominant on their home field, where they’ve captured nine consecutive victories. Their pitching staff has anchored their stellar home performances, allowing an average of just 0.4 runs over that stretch.

In the circle, senior right-hander Allie Lukaszewicz continued her impressive run. She pitched four strong innings, surrendering only one earned run on two hits. Lukaszewicz has now held opponents to one earned run or fewer in 11 straight appearances.

Offensively, it was a balanced effort for the Bulldogs. Six different players recorded hits, including standout freshman Viviana Jilek, who went 2-for-3 with a run scored.

Murrieta Mesa (18-8-1) saw its four-game win streak come to an end, but it put up a tough fight, pushing the game into extras. Despite the loss, the Rams gave the Bulldogs one of their toughest tests of the season.

With the win, Ayala advances to the CIF-SS Division 1 quarterfinals and will face La Mirada (25-4) on Wednesday, May 21.

Game Photos

Photos taken by Anthony Sarinana