Bulls Boast Win Over Northern Illinois, 3-2
DEKALB, IL – The University at Buffalo softball team scored three early runs to defeat MAC rival Northern Illinois, 3-2, this afternoon at NIU's Mary M. Bell Field. The win over the Huskies is the fourth in school history and the first since 2005, as the Bulls finish their opening weekend of conference play.
Ashley Bertot |
The Bulls (10-20, 2-2 MAC) put together a three-run second inning to take an early lead over the Huskies. Jessica Griffin started the inning off for Buffalo, reaching base on an Huskie error. Pinch runner Kristen Gallipani came in and successfully stole second and advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt from Alyssa Ward. Jaime Sheffler earned the RBI, singling to give Gallipani the go ahead run. Andi Saucier was hit by the pitch to put two runners on base, perfectly setting up Ashley Bertot, who slammed a double to left field, earning two RBIs in the process as the Bulls went up 3-0. Northern Illinois scored a run in both the bottom of the fourth and fifth innings but it wasn't enough to get by the Bulls. Bertot led the team on the day, going two for three at the plate and went a perfect 2 for 2 in stolen bases. Bertot is a perfect 10 for 10 in stolen bases so far this season.
Sharon Barr |
Terese Diaz earned the start on the mound, striking out two batters in 1.2 innings of work. Sharon Barr finished the game, pitching the final 5.1 innings to earn the win, holding the Huskies to one earned run, while striking out four batters.
The Bulls will play a makeup game with crosstown rival Canisius on Thursday, April 8 at 3:00 pm at Canisius' Demske Sports Complex before resuming Mid-American Conference play at Kent State next weekend.