Statistics

CLERMONT, Fla. -- Three runs in the bottom of the 1st inning was enough for the University of New England softball team to triumph over Westfield State University, 3-2, on Thursday (Mar. 15) in the Dot Richardson Spring Games hosted by the U.S. National Training Center.

A pair of errors helped loaded the bases before the second of out of UNE's initial at-bat, and a wild pitch put one run across. A walk filled the bags again for Melissa Jakubowski, who guided a two-RBI single into center to establish a 3-0 cushion.

That was all the run support Sydnee Bessler needed to earn her fourth pitching victory in six decisions, as she racked up eight strikeouts against one walk and five hits. Bessler has fanned 31 batters in her last four starts (27 innings).

The Owls (1-7) did get a couple back with two away in the top of the 6th to close the gap. Caitlin Hughes put an RBI-single through the left side to make it 3-1, and, following a stolen base/error, Karly Mastello sliced the deficit to one.

Avery Alberghini notched a game-high two hits for the Nor'easters (4-4). Sarah Lachapelle singled and scored during the opening frame.

Emily Woodworth was not charged with an earned run but took the pitching setback for Westfield State.


Earlier in the day: UNE 10, SUNY Geneseo 2 (5 innings)