In a commanding performance that showcased their prowess on both sides of the diamond, the St. Ignatius Wildcats Varsity Softball team silenced the Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory Irish 5-0 on Wednesday afternoon.

The crosstown rivalry remained a pitcher's duel through the early innings until the Wildcats broke through in the third. Julie Galarza delivered in the clutch with a perfectly executed sacrifice fly to put the first run on the board for SI.

The Wildcats extended their lead in the fourth when Gianna Galarza unleashed a thunderous solo shot to left field, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and giving St. Ignatius a 2-0 advantage.

Freshman, Olivia Dollard was nothing short of spectacular in the circle, spinning a complete game shutout. Dollard scattered five hits across seven masterful innings while fanning six Irish batters and issuing just one free pass. Her pinpoint control and devastating movement kept Sacred Heart's lineup off-balance throughout the contest.

The Wildcats' offense was led by the dynamic duo of Gianna Galarza and Vicky Carrillo-Marchetti, who each collected a pair of hits. Sam Goethals, both Galarza sisters, and Carrillo each drove in runs for the balanced St. Ignatius attack.

The victory improves St. Ignatius's record as they prepare to hit the road for a crucial matchup against powerhouse Archbishop Mitty on Friday.