Canyon defeats top-ranked El Modena 9-5 in softball

The Canyon softball team achieved a significant victory on Thursday, defeating No. 1 ranked El Modena 9-5 in a Crestview League game at Canyon High School. The Comanches had a strong performance, collecting a total of 13 hits throughout the match. Canyon’s pitcher, Bella Settembro, played a crucial role, striking out 13 batters over 6 and 2/3 innings. This win helped Canyon improve its record to 11-3 overall and 1-1 in the league. Coach Jess Carbajal praised Settembro for her impressive effort during the game. El Modena, which had recently claimed the top ranking after winning a tournament, scored all five of its runs with home runs. Despite their offense, the Vanguards could not keep pace with Canyon’s scoring. In the third inning, Canyon sent 10 batters to the plate, scoring five runs. Samantha Gresham hit a double that brought in two runs. Irma Urincho and Ava DiGiambattista followed with singles that added more runs to the scoreboard. The Vanguards responded with a two-run home run from Kylie Tafua in the fourth inning. However, Canyon continued to expand its lead, scoring four more runs in the fifth inning, including a hit by pitch that forced in another run. In a strong offensive display, Settembro expressed confidence on the mound, noting it was a team effort with contributions from everyone, including pinch runners and strategic bunts. The Comanches ended the game with a strong defensive effort, securing their victory and putting them back in contention in the league standings.