The Pirate softball team opened Western State Conference play Thursday with a 7-3 victory at Cuesta College. Lauren Albrent was 4-4 with a double, two runs scored and three runs batted in while Courtney Terrazas had a home run and two RBI in the victory. Morgan Albertsen scattered five hits and gave up three runs, zero earned, in the complete-game win in the circle for Ventura (12-4, 1-0).
The Pirates got off to a fast start in the top of the first inning. Ashley Perez led off with a double, then Albrent singled her home one out later. Isabella Ayala followed with another single and, after the second out, Isabel Gallegos and Terrazas each drew walks for the Pirates' second run.
VC gave up an unearned run in the bottom of the first, and took control with three runs in the top of the third inning. Albrent opened the frame with a single, advancing to second base before Ayala hit an RBI double, moving to third on a Cougar error. Abby Strong hit a sacrifice fly to centerfield and Terrazas hit a solo home run for a 5-1 Ventura edge.
Cuesta came back with a pair of unearned runs in the bottom half of the third to close the gap to 5-3.
Ventura scored another run in the fourth inning with a Perez triple and an Albrent single.
VC plated another insurance run in the top of the sixth when Albrent hit an RBI double to score Ahlyssa Guzman.
The Pirates continue WSC play at home on Tuesday March 15 against Allan Hancock College. First pitch is slated for 2:30pm at the VC softball complex.