Lady Cougars Drop 2-game series in Home Opener to No. 17-Ranked Knights
Game 2
Game 2
| Final | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | R | H | E | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Marian | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 5 | 7 | 0 |
|
Saint Francis (Ind.) | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 4 |
FORT WAYNE, Ind. -- In their home opener of the season, the University of Saint Francis (Ind.) Lady Cougars suffered back-to-back losses against No. 17-Ranked Marian University, putting them at a 5-11 overall record and a disappointing 1-7 in the Crossroads League Conference.
In Game 1, Mia Werner took the mound for Saint Francis and pitched a solid game, going 5.1 innings and allowing 7 hits and 3 earned runs while striking out 3 batters. However, Marian's offense proved to be too much for Werner and the Saint Francis defense, as they were able to capitalize on several key opportunities and put up a total of 7 runs. Although she gave up some runs, Werner was able to limit the damage and keep Saint Francis within striking distance.
On the offensive side, designated hitter Tori Miller had a standout performance with 2 hits, including a double, and 2 RBIs. Miller's hits were crucial in driving in runs for Saint Francis and keeping the team in the game.
In the field, Saint Francis had some key defensive plays that helped to prevent Marian from scoring even more runs. Second baseman Abi Erwin made a great diving catch to rob a hit from a Marian batter, while catcher Tori Miller threw out a runner attempting to steal second base.
Overall, while the team fell short in Game 1, there were some strong moments both offensively and defensively that the team can build upon in future games.
In Game 2, Erika Turpin got the start on the mound for Saint Francis and went 4 innings, allowing 4 hits and 2 earned runs while striking out 2 batters. Despite a solid outing from Turpin, Marian's offense continued to be a challenge for Saint Francis, and the team struggled to find scoring opportunities throughout the game. Key relief pitcher Kenzie Rust came in for Saint Francis in the 5th inning and pitched 2 innings, allowing just 1 hit and no earned runs while striking out 2 batters.
On the offensive side, Saint Francis had some key at bats and hits resulting in runs batted in. Catcher Tori Miller had a key hit resulting in an RBI, while first baseman Macie Dowd had 4 hits, including a double, and 3 RBI's.
Marian University also had a number of errors in the series, which helped Saint Francis to stay in the game. However, Saint Francis was not able to capitalize on these opportunities and ultimately fell short in both games.
Despite the losses, the Lady Cougs remain determined to improve. USF will look to bounce back in their next series Tuesday March 28th and come out with a win. The Lady Cougars will play host to fellow Crossroads League opponent, Mount Vernon Nazarene University (OH). Mount Vernon is receiving votes and they are 14-3 overall and 6-2 in the CL Conference.
First pitch for the 2-Game series will be at 3PM at Westendorf Field. | Westendorf Field | 1001 Leesburg Rd. Fort Wayne, Ind. 46808 | DH Game 1 | Game 2 will follow 30 minutes after the final out fo Game 1.
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