BALTIMORE– The Notre Dame of Maryland University softball team took down Rosemont College in game one of their doubleheader on Saturday, April 20. NDMU took the opener 4-2 before falling 6-5 in the second game of the matchup.
GAME 1
The Gators trailed 1-0 entering the bottom of the first inning but looked to have an immediate answer. Anabelle Hafner was hit by a pitch to lead off the inning and then Julianna Leatherwood singled to shortstop, putting runners on the corners. Ju. Leatherwood swiped second base putting two runners in scoring position. Jessie Leatherwood drove a single through the left side, allowing both runners to score and give NDMU a 2-1 lead.
Inside the circle, Je. Leatherwood dazzled, throwing 7.0 innings allowing two runs on six hits while piling up seven strikeouts. Rosemont tied the game, scoring in the top of the third inning to level the game at two.
NDMU needed to score to regain the lead, striking in the bottom of the sixth inning. Charlene Torres started the rally, hitting a single up the middle. Gena Donalds came on to run for Torres and Bethani Newbold put her in motion. Newbold launched a triple deep into left field, allowing Donalds to race around the bases and score. Newbold added an insurance run, scoring on a wild pitch to make the score 4-2. In the top of the seventh inning, the Ravens placed one runner on base, but Leatherwood shut down the rally, drawing a pop up to secure the victory.
GAME 2
NDMU jumped out to an early lead in game two. A. Hafner walked and stole second to put herself in scoring position. Je. Leatherwood then singled to second, allowing Hafner to score and give NDMU the 1-0 lead. The Gators then loaded the bases for Kayla Bright who drew a walk, resulting in a run scoring. Malorie Gogel capitalized on a fielding error reaching base and allowing a third run to score.
The Ravens plated a run in the top of the fourth inning, but NDMU immediately answered. A. Hafner once again started the response, walking and stealing second base. Je. Leatherwood drove a single into the outfield, allowing Hafner to easily score. Torres then rocketed a double into right center, scoring Leatherwood to put NDMU ahead 5-1.
Rosemont battled back, scoring five runs in the top of the sixth inning to surge in front. The Gators had runners on base in the bottom of the inning but could not level the score, falling 6-5.
WHO'S NEXT
The Gators will head to Saint Elizabeth University for a United East doubleheader on Wednesday, Apr. 24. The first pitch is scheduled for 3:00 PM.
STAY CONNECTED
Fans can keep up with NDMU Athletics all season long on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube using the handle @ndmgatorsports.
