Brooklyn, N.Y.- The Hunter College softball team dropped a pair of games on the road against Saint Joseph's Brooklyn on Wednesday afternoon, to dip to 7-13 overall, while the Bears advanced to 17-9.
Game 1: Hunter 0, St. Joseph's Brooklyn 4
The game started off evenly, with neither team managing to score in the early innings. However, St. Joseph's broke the deadlock in the bottom of the second inning, scoring the game's first run and setting the tone for the remainder of the match up.
Despite the outcome, Hunter's players showed resilience and put up a valiant effort. Outfielder Olivia Palumbo and third baseman Samatha Marsala led the offensive charge for Hunter, each recording hits and consistently putting pressure on St. Joseph's defense. Palumbo's single up the middle and Marsala's timely hit showcased Hunter's ability to create scoring opportunities.
Despite their best efforts, Hunter struggled to capitalize on scoring chances, leaving runners stranded on base throughout the game. Pitcher, Grace Basil started on the mound for Hunter, battling through two innings before handing the ball over to reliever Brielle Staskavag, who provided solid innings of relief.
Game 2: Hunter 6, St. Joseph's Brooklyn 8
Hunter came out swinging in the second game, putting up an impressive three runs in the second inning to take an early lead. Contributions from outfielder
Sophia Perez, who smacked a crucial two-run triple, and a strong hit by
Paige Witalec, set the tone for Hunter's offense.
However, St. Joseph's quickly answered back, narrowing the gap with a run of their own in the bottom of the second inning. Despite Hunter's efforts to maintain their lead, St. Joseph's managed to tie the game in the fourth inning, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
In the pivotal fifth inning, St. Joseph's exploded offensively, scoring six runs to seize control of the game. Despite Hunter's best efforts to rally back, including an RBI single by Elizabeth Thompson in the fourth inning, they couldn't overcome St. Joseph's offense.
Despite the loss, Marsala stood out for the Hawks, who contributed with a hit and a run scored, while Adriana Ramirez, tallied two hits on the day.
Pitcher T'ea Panagakos started strong for Hunter, but ultimately couldn't contain their opponent's offense. Alyssa Curiale entered the game in a tough spot but battled through the fifth inning, followed by Staskavag provided solid relief pitching but it was not enough to overcome as they ultimately fell in the second game, 8-6.