ERIE, Pa. – The Mercyhurst University softball team opened its home schedule Saturday afternoon, when they hosted California (Pa.) for a Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) doubleheader. The Vulcans went on to sweep the Lakers, 8-4, in both games one and two, to begin league play.

Junior outfielder Rachel DiBartolomeo concluded her stellar week, going a 4-for-8, scored two runs, drove in three, stole two bases, and hit two homeruns during the afternoon's games.

Game One | Mercyhurst 4, California (Pa.) 8

The Vulcans pulled out to an early seven nothing lead before Allison Yule got the Lakers on the board in the bottom of the sixth inning. Yule doubled to right center field, scoring Cassandra Egelston.

Mercyhurst would tack on three more in the seventh, to conclude their scoring.

A single by Kayla Larson scored Megan Maranto and an error by the catcher helped Emily Hair score on the play. Larson advanced to third on the error. Egelston would, then, score Ellie Dougher on an RBI groundball to second base.

The Lakers scored four runs on seven hits.

Heather Nye (2-3) recorded the loss, while California's (Pa.) Alex Sagl (8-1) received the win.

Game Two | Mercyhurst 4, California (Pa.) 8

After Cal scored three runs in the top of the first, DiBartolomeo pulled the Lakers within one, when she blasted her third homerun of the season.

The Vulcans would score the next five runs until DiBartolomeo hit her second homerun of the day; this time a solo shot to center field.

With Mercyhurst trailing 8-3 heading into the bottom of the seventh, Taylor Jezuit hit a sacrifice fly to center field, scoring Nicolette Tomani, ending the scoring at 8-4.

The Lakers scored four runs on six hits, while Anna Cochis (3-2) received the loss in game two.

Mercyhurst will resume play Wednesday, March 30, when they host crosstown rival Gannon at the Mercyhurst Softball Field. First pitch is scheduled for 2:30 p.m.