The Saint Mary's College softball team stayed hot yesterday, as they recorded their third straight double-header sweep against Olivet College, winning 3-1 and 7-0. The wins bring their overall record to 18-2 and their winning streak to seven.
After jumping out to an early 1-0 lead in the first inning, the Belles recorded their second and third runs off leadoff homeruns in the fourth and sixth innings by freshman outfielder Kristen Nelson and senior first basement Katie Rashid.
In the seventh inning, with the Belles leading 3-1, the Comets tried to start a rally with the bases loaded, but couldn't get on the board.
In the second game, junior left fielder Ashley Peterson led the offensive charge in the nightcap with three hits, two homeruns, and six RBIs. Junior shortstop Maureen Healy followed that up with an impressive performance of her own, going 2-for-4 with two runs scored. Catcher Ashley Fusaro also went 2-for-4, scoring a run of her own.
"Solid defense has been our forte this year as well as stringing base hits together," Belles coach Erin Sullivan said.
Sullivan's words have rung true recently, as the Belles have shut out their opponents in four of their last six games. Their pitching has also been stellar, with freshmen Angela Gillis and Monica Palicki both going the distance in their respective games yesterday. With the win Gillis brings her pitching record to a team-best 10-0 with a 0.63 ERA. The Belles are now 4-0 in the MIAA conference and on a roll toward a playoff berth.
"We're looking to do the little things," Sullivan said. "Most importantly, we're looking to keep the energy level high."
The Belles will face their next MIAA opponent on Saturday as they travel to Alma College for a double-header. The first pitch is scheduled for 2 p.m.
