Saint Mary’s will try to continue its winning ways when the Belles travel to Manchester today for a non-conference doubleheader.

After a string of six straight conference games, a non-conference opponent will offer a change of pace for the Belles (24-10, 9-5 MIAA).

 “These games will be nice as there’s not a lot of pressure to win,” Belles coach Erin Sullivan said. “The way we’ve been playing has been good, but we still need to iron out some problems. The games will give us a good chance to prepare for the rest of our season … we’re very excited to play.”

Although it is not a conference game, Sullivan said her team must still come out and perform well.

“It’s just one of those things I always talk about [with the team],” Sullivan said. “If we’re the better team, we should win. We need to get ahead early, or come back quickly if we get down. We shouldn’t have to count on late-inning rallies for our runs.”

After a slew of conference games, Saint Mary’s had five days off since its last game. Sullivan said her team remains confident, even after the long break.

“I think we’re pretty confident right now,” Sullivan said. “We were excited to have time off, but now we’re antsy to get back on the field. We are excited to get back out there and keep up our good run we have going.”

Though today’s games are Sullivan’s main focus, she knows her team will also be looking forward to Saturday, when her team has a chance at clinching a spot in the MIAA tournament.

“We need to win one on Saturday,” Sullivan said. “We need to play fundamental softball, put the ball in play and be disciplined. It will be our seniors’ last home game, there will be many high emotions, we need to keep our composure and poise.”

Senior pitcher Angela Gillis has been a player the team can look to keep that poise and composure, Sullivan said.

“Gillis has been epitome of composure for us this season,” Sullivan said. “She has ice in her veins, you look at her and she has a great quiet confidence. She really keeps the team level. Along with Gillis, all of our seniors need to step up. Our three captains need [to] come out and play well down the home stretch.”

Saint Mary’s will visit Manchester today, with first pitch scheduled for 3:30 p.m.

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