All Anna Cahn had to do Sunday was remain patient.
Cahn, a freshman left-hander for the Cal Poly softball team, got all of her run support in the sixth inning of a 5-0, series-clinching win over Cal State Northridge at Bob Janssen Field.
In her first collegiate shutout, Cahn (6-11) struck out five and scattered four hits in a complete game.
Through the opening five frames, Cal Poly (18-19, 6-6 Big West Conference) mustered just two hits, before junior centerfielder Jenna Maiden lead off the sixth by doubling to left field.
Soon afterward, the bases were loaded thanks to junior second baseman Stephanie Tam drawing a walk and junior shortstop Melissa Pura singling. Senior designated player Sarah Iwata drew another walk to bring home Maiden.
Sophomore first baseman Krysten Cary, who finished 3 for 3, then doubled to plate Tam and Pura before Cahn drove in Cary and Iwata to polish off the scoring.
Amanda Pitzenberger (3-6) suffered the loss for the Matadors (17-21, 6-6 Big West), who stranded 11 baserunners.
With the win, which secured the series 2-1, Cal Poly moved into a third-place tie in the conference with Cal State Northridge and Cal State Fullerton.
The Mustangs, who lost a doubleheader opener 8-7 Saturday before rebounding with a 6-2 win, have won 13 of 14 contests at home.
They’ll continue Big West play by visiting Pacific for a doubleheader beginning at noon Saturday.