OSHKOSH, WI - The Beloit College softball team (0-2, 0-0 MWC) opened their season with tough losses to Wis.-Superior (4-2, 0-0 UMAC) and Edgewood (1-5, 0-0 NACC) this afternoon.
Game 1 vs UW-Superior (L, 4-19, 5 Inn.)
While the Buccaneers showed some offensive firepower late in the game, a dominant fourth inning by Wis.-Superior proved to be the difference.
Beloit struggled to contain the Wis.-Superior offense, who piled up 12 hits, including two doubles and a home run. Despite the challenging pitching performance, Beloit's offense found its footing later in the game, showcasing the team's potential for a promising season.
The Buccaneers finally cracked the scoreboard in the top of the 5th inning. After Stella Lutes (Riverside, IL) doubled to right center and advanced to third on a passed ball, Angela Donath (Wausau, Wis.) walked and stole second, allowing Lutes to steal home and put Beloit on the board (1-19). Moments later, Briana Arteaga (Covina, Calif.) singled to shortstop, allowing Donath to advance to third. Rachel Overocker (Tinley Park, IL) then singled to center field, driving in Donath and bringing the score to 2-19. Capitalizing on a passed ball, Arteaga scored, inching Beloit closer at 3-19. Finally, Siddalee Meyers (Orfordville, Wis.) reached on a fielder's choice, with Lizzie Paschal (Holbrook, AZ) out at second, allowing Hannah Beran (Calendonia, Ill.) to score, bringing the final tally to 4-19.
Game 2 vs Edgewood (1-13, 6 Inn.)
Edgewood's offense was firing on all cylinders throughout the contest, highlighted by a powerful sixth inning where they exploded for eight runs. Beloit struggled to contain the Eagles, with Edgewood capitalizing on defensive miscues and stringing together timely hits.
While the final score wasn't in Beloit's favor, the Buccaneers did manage to break through in the bottom of the third inning. Arteaga grounded out to third base, but not before delivering a crucial sacrifice fly that allowed Paloma Reyes (Beloit, Wis.) to score an unearned run. This single tally was all Beloit could muster against Edgewood's pitcher, who delivered a commanding performance on the mound.
The Buccaneers will look to regroup before heading to the Sunshine State for Spring Break. Their first game in Florida is set for March 9th against Thomas College. First pitch from the Bartow Park Sports Complex is set for 9:30 am CT.
