OWINGS MILLS, MD - A fast start by Oswego proved too much to overcome as Notre Dame of Maryland fell, 8-3, on Thursday afternoon in Owings Mills. 

Oswego wasted little time setting the tone, capitalizing on early opportunities in the first inning. Taking advantage of a hit batter, a walk, and a Notre Dame error, the Lakers pushed across two runs despite recording just one hit in the frame.

The momentum continued in the second inning, where Oswego added three more runs. A two-RBI single highlighted the rally, while defensive miscues again hurt the Gators as the lead grew to 5-0.

Oswego extended its advantage to 7-0 in the third inning with a pair of runs, forcing a pitching change for Notre Dame. The Lakers tacked on one more in the fourth to take a commanding 8-0 lead.

Notre Dame began to respond in the bottom of the fourth. After a leadoff double by Claire Smith and a pinch run by Raina Burns, Raegan Perkes delivered an RBI double down the right field line to put the Gators on the board. Gabriella Allred followed with an RBI single to trim the deficit to 8-2.

The Gators added another run in the fifth inning when Anabelle Hafner doubled and later came around to score on an RBI groundout by Eleanor Flores, making it 8-3.

Notre Dame continued to battle, collecting seven hits on the day, including multi-hit performances from Raegan Perkes. However, the early deficit and four team errors proved costly, limiting any chance of a full comeback.

In the circle, Malorie Gogel took the loss after allowing seven runs (four earned) in 2.1 innings, while Raegan Perkes provided steady relief, surrendering just one run over the final 4.2 innings.

Notre Dame moves to 3-2 after game two of the series was cancelled due to rain. The Gators return home to face Hood College on Sunday, March 22 at 1 PM.