St. Edward’s softball splits on day two of UT-Permian Basin series
ODESSA, Texas - The Hilltopper softball split a doubleheader with UT-Permian Basin Saturday morning at the UTPB Softball Facility. The Hilltoppers took game one, 3-0, but fell in the series finale, 2-1.
In game one, St. Edward's (34-19, 20-4 HC) opened the scoring in the first inning when freshman Meagen Bailey reached base on a one-out single, advanced to third on a single by junior Lisa Paul and came in to score on a squeeze bunt by sophomore Courtney Lavender to put the Hilltoppers up, 1-0.
The Hilltoppers extended the lead in the sixth inning when freshman Salena Acosta reached base on a two-out single. She came around to score on a triple by senior Jamie Zilverberg. Then Zilverberg scored on a Falcon error for the final run of the game.
Freshman Paige Sandahl (17-3) picked up the victory allowing just two hits, while walking two and striking out nine in her ninth shutout of the season.
In game two, the Hilltoppers struck first in the second inning when Zilverberg reached on a two-out single. She stole second base and scored on a RBI-single by freshman Tawny Klinkenberg.
Sophomore Diana Cezeaux (10-10) was very effective on the mound as she did not allow a hit until the fourth inning. UT-Permian Basin leadoff hitter Katie Smith reached on an error by the Hilltoppers. She advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt, moved to third on a single and stole home to score the first run for the Falcons. The Falcons (12-37, 9-15 HC) would add the winning run as Elaine Dominguez scored on a double by Katie Chesworth.
The Hilltoppers would only get one more hit the final three innings as they would go down in defeat, 2-1.
Cezeaux allowed two runs (one earned) on two hits, while striking out nine in 7.0 innings of work.
The Hilltoppers still maintain first place in the Heartland Conference as St. Mary's also dropped one game in its four0game series with Lincoln. The last weekend series for both teams beginning Friday will decide who will take home the crown.
The Hilltoppers will be back in action Friday when they travel to take on Heartland Conference rival Texas A&M-International. The matchup will begin at 1 p.m. in Laredo, Texas.