The Indians of John Burroughs High School (12-11) in Burbank were coming off of a three-game winning streak as they traveled across town to face their rivals, the Bulldogs of Burbank High (20-2).

This would be the second time both Pacific League teams were meeting.

However, the second round found the teams in different situations. A month ago, the Bulldogs were 10-0 and in second place in the league; Burroughs at 3-4, was in fourth place behind Arcadia.

Burbank entered round one with a 10-game winning streak, while Burroughs had scattered three wins between back-to-back losses. Burbank has maintained its second-place league position, while Burroughs moved from fourth place to third after defeating Arcadia 4-1.

The evening began with a salute to the seniors for both teams - the players and their parents were introduced as they walked to the baselines. This was followed by the singing of the national anthem and introduction of the players and coaches for both teams.

On the mound for Burbank was Kristin Peraza, with Lexi Hernandez behind the plate. The first inning opened with Peraza in rare form as she retired the side, striking out two. Burroughs had Kerry Hodgins pitching and Katie Budrick catching against the Bulldogs. Hodgins struck out one batter and was backed up by Vanessa Simile (shortstop) and Cassie Colón (first base), as they teamed up for two 6-3 plays.

The Indians attempted to capitalize on two Peraza walks in the top of the second inning. The generally composed junior pitcher was reacting to one of four illegal pitches called in the game by the field umpire. The inning ended with two runners stranded on the bases as the Bulldogs went down 1-2-3 against a tough Burroughs defense.

The third inning saw Peraza recover and strike out the side, recording her sixth of the game. Hernandez managed a single, with one out, but tried to steal second base and was thrown out on a shot from Budrick to Simile.

The fourth inning offered a spark of hope for the Indians as Taylor Buliavac doubled a fastball off of Peraza. Four batters later, Taylor was left on third base. The Bulldogs managed the second single of the game off of Hodgins, but came up empty-handed.

The fifth and sixth innings offered one highlight when Buliavac recorded her second hit of the game against Peraza.

As the sevenyh inning opened, he defensive battle was stuck in a 0-0 tie.

Burroughs seemingly handed the win to Burbank when in the last inning of regulation they went down in order. The Bulldogs knew victory was only one run away as Daisy Beltran entered the batter's box; Beltran flew out to left field.

Kristina Ortiz singled then advanced to second base when Melissa Sanchez singled behind her. The effort was wasted as the next two batters ended the inning.

In the eight inning (the first of non-regulation play), Peraza struck out the first two batters then faced Buliavac for the fourth time. Buliavac singled (3 for 4 in the game) but was thrown out on a fielder's choice.

The Bulldogs went down in order to close the inning, Hodgins recording her sixth strikeout of the game.

As the ninth inning opened, you could feel the tension from the players and the fans - anticipation and excitement was in the air. This contest had become the first true softball battle of the new century for the cross-town rivalry.

The Indians saw Liz Hanna single and become their eighth stranded base runner. The Bulldogs found the defensive side of Buliavac as Kassy Uchida and Beltran hit line drives straight to Buliavac's glove for outs one and two. The third batter ground out on a 6-3 play.

The 10th inning of the game brought a renewed sense of excitement. The Indians stepped up to the batter's box but came up short. Sanchez smashed a double to deep left field for the Bulldogs, but was caught trying to stretch the triple, by Simile.

Megan Schafer reached on a single; Brianne Schafer then struck out for the second out of the inning. Peraza reached on an error by Simile, followed by a walk to Lexi Hernandez. This set the stage for the Burbank shortstop, Liana Hernandez. With a count of 0-2, Hernandez popped a single to left field, scoring M. Schafer - to win the game.

The game is one fans will talk about for several years. There was drama, tension, outstanding plays on both sides and a thriller to end the regular season.

Both teams will take a few days off to rest and prepare for the playoff.

Next up for the third-place Indians (13-12) will be revealed when CIF announces the post-season match ups.