Turlock, CA (March 30, 2012) – The Hawai'i Pacific softball team (22-12) picked up its second victory of the day at the Mizuno Tournament of Champions, this time a 9-1 mercy rule win over Humboldt State (11-27). HPU ended any drama early, with five runs in the first inning.

Melissa Kirby was on the hill for HPU and she was outstanding for the second consecutive outing, she gave up one run on four hits for her eighth win of the season. In her last 10 innings of work, she has allowed one run and five hits.

HSU set the table for HPU in the first inning with three walks, a passed ball, and two wild pitches. HPU took advantage with RBI hits from Celina Garces and Chanelle Senas. Maile Kim, Caira Pires, and Dorian Acierto all drove in runs without the benefit of a base hit.  HSU would get a run in the top of the third, but HPU would match in the bottom half. Four walks led to another HPU run without a hit. Garces scored on a wild pitch after reaching base via the free pass.

HPU would add two more in the fourth, first on an RBI single by Breanne Patton and then on a theft of home. Pinch runner Pomi Kalakau ran for Patton and would score on a successful double steal.  Patton then ended the game with an RBI single in the fifth inning.

Patton led HPU with two hits and two RBI while Elderts scored twice.

HPU will play Sonoma State University at 8:15 PM tonight in Turlock.