In an intense opening game at the Great Western Shootout hosted by Arizona Western College in Yuma, AZ, the College of Southern Nevada (CSN) Lady Coyotes fell just short against Scottsdale Community College, with a final score of 7-6. This nail-biter of a game on January 31, 2025, saw CSN make a spirited attempt at a comeback that showcased their tenacity and skill but ultimately ended in a narrow defeat.

The game started off rocky for CSN, as Scottsdale put up two runs in the bottom of the first inning due to a combination of hits and a costly error by CSN's third baseman, Chaleah Workman. The Lady Coyotes responded in the top of the second with a run batted in by Mariela Rodriguez, who singled to drive in Chaleah Workman, making the score 2-1.

Scottsdale, however, extended their lead in the third and fourth innings, capitalizing on more CSN defensive errors and timely hitting. By the middle of the fourth inning, Scottsdale had built up a 7-1 lead, putting the Lady Coyotes in a difficult position as they struggled to contain the Artichokes' offense.

Undeterred by the scoreboard, CSN began chipping away at the deficit. In the fourth inning, Marlene Saldate's RBI single brought Chaleah Workman home, making the score 7-2. The real turning point came in the sixth inning, when CSN exploded for four runs. This rally was highlighted by a two-RBI single from Camryn Hunkins and another RBI single by Marlene Saldate, who collectively brought the score to a tense 7-6.

While the CSN offense found its rhythm, the defense struggled to support their efforts, committing three errors throughout the game. These mishaps contributed to several of Scottsdale's runs, which were crucial in such a closely contested game. On the mound, Mckenna Cahoon started for CSN but faced challenges early on, giving up four runs (only one earned) over just 2.1 innings. Blakelee Christian took over and managed to stabilize the situation somewhat, striking out five over 3.2 innings, but not before allowing three earned runs.

In the top of the seventh inning, CSN had the opportunity to tie or take the lead but couldn't capitalize on their chances. A line out by Athena Tonga'onevai and a fly out by Chaleah Workman quickly made it two outs. Mattingly Mauzey then grounded out to end the inning and the game, leaving the Lady Coyotes just short of a comeback.

This game was a rollercoaster for the Lady Coyotes, featuring moments of both promise and frustration. The team showed great resilience in battling back from a substantial deficit, but early errors and missed opportunities ultimately defined their day. The narrow loss not only reflected the small margins in softball but also highlighted areas for CSN to improve upon, such as defensive solidity and capitalizing on scoring opportunities.

As the Lady Coyotes move forward in the tournament, this game will surely serve as both a learning experience and a motivator. The ability to rally from behind demonstrates the team's strong character and potential, qualities they will look to build upon as they face further challenges in the Great Western Shootout. With more games ahead, CSN will no doubt aim to refine their strategies and come back stronger, hoping to turn close games like these into victories.