Utah Valley University defeated Brigham Young University 4-3 at Gail Miller Field in Provo on April 7, with Payge Armendariz pitching a complete game and Angelique Mann driving in two runs for the Wolverines.
The win is significant as it marks the first time Utah Valley has beaten BYU in three consecutive seasons and the first instance of back-to-back victories in Provo. This result continues a trend of competitive games between the two teams.
Armendariz limited BYU to just two extra-base hits, escaping difficult situations with key double plays during the middle innings. “I’m so proud of Payge, she’s had to go through some mechanical changes, and for her to make those adjustments and have this victory, against such a good team, is just phenomenal,” said head coach Cody Thomson. “The team performance was great, we just did what it took to win.”
Utah Valley scored early with Mann’s bases-loaded single before adding three more runs in the third inning, helped by defensive errors from BYU. Additional contributions came from Amber Rodriguez drawing a walk that led to scoring opportunities and Megan Sterzer delivering a sacrifice fly.
BYU responded with runs throughout the game but could not overcome Utah Valley’s lead. The Cougars threatened again in the seventh inning when Lily Owens hit a triple but were unable to tie or take the lead as Armendariz secured final outs.
Looking ahead, Utah Valley will resume Western Athletic Conference play against Abilene Christian Wildcats this weekend in Texas. The series includes a Friday doubleheader starting at 1 p.m., followed by Saturday’s finale at 11 a.m., with all games available for streaming on ESPN+.
