GREENSBURG, Pa. — The Golden Eagles softball team (7-13, 1-5 PSAC-W) faced a challenging doubleheader against Seton Hill (11-13, 4-2 PSAC-W), dropping the first game 5–1 and the second game 19–11 at the SHU Softball Complex.
Game 1: Seton Hill 5, Clarion 1
Clarion's offense struggled to convert opportunities, managing only five hits and five walks. Seton Hill took control early, capitalizing on a crucial second-inning play that loaded the bases. Kassidy Wittig's two-run triple to right center extended the Griffins' lead to 4–0. The Golden Eagles had a chance to respond in the second inning with
Jordy Best walking and stealing second, followed by
Emily Buchleitner's single, but a fielder's choice resulted in Best being tagged out at home.
In the sixth inning, Clarion finally broke through as
Sabi Medrano scored on a
Delanie Davison single, but the rally ended with the bases loaded. Despite putting two runners on in the seventh, the Golden Eagles couldn't close the gap.
Rian Reed pitched a complete game, allowing 5 earned runs on 5 hits. Notable performances included
Sami Springman, who reached base twice with two walks and contributed defensively, and Sophie Petrash, who led the team with two hits.
Game 2: Seton Hill 19, Clarion 11 (5 inn.)
In the second game, Clarion's bats came alive with 13 hits, including a home run and four doubles, but it wasn't enough to overcome Seton Hill's explosive offense. The Griffins set the pace with a staggering 13-run first inning, which proved pivotal. Clarion managed to score twice in the opening frame as
Alexis Valencia capitalized on a third baseman's error after stealing third.
Ainsley Perdicaris sparked a rally with a three-run homer in the third inning, bringing Clarion within reach.
Sabi Medrano's three-RBI double in the fifth showcased the Golden Eagles' resilience. Despite efforts like a bases-loaded walk in the first and productive outs in later innings, Clarion couldn't fully close the gap.
Ainsley Perdicaris stood out with two hits, including a home run, driving in three runs and scoring twice. Medrano contributed significantly with three RBIs and two doubles, while
Sami Springman added two RBIs with a double and a hit in two at-bats.
Emily Buchleitner crossed the plate twice and added a hit, further contributing to the scoring effort.