Newark, N.J.- The Hunter College women's softball team split a pair of games on F. Douglass Field against Rutgers-Newark this afternoon. After falling 2-6 in the first game, Hunter bounced back for an impressive 3-0 sweep in game two.
Game 1: Hunter 2, Rugters-Newark 6
The day got off to a difficult start for Hunter, as pitcher
Alyssa Curiale faced a tough opening inning, allowing four runs facing before being replaced. Hunter managed to limit the damage in subsequent innings, but Rutgers-Newark's early offensive surge proved to be decisive.
The Hawks' offense struggled to gain momentum against Rutgers-Newark's pitching, managing only two runs on seven hits throughout the game. Notable offensive contributions came from Sophia Perez, who tallied two hits and an RBI, and Jessica Fowler, who also recorded two hits and an RBI.
Despite the loss, Hunter's defense put up a solid effort, with pitcher Brielle Staskavage stepping in admirably after the tough start. Staskavage pitched six innings of solid relief, allowing just two runs on two hits while striking out one batter.
Game 2: Hunter 3, Rutgers-Newark 0
Game two started off with a defensive battle, as both teams kept the score sheet clean through the first two innings. However, Hunter broke the deadlock in the top of the third inning. Perez ignited the offense with a well-placed double to right-center field. She then showcased her speed by stealing third base. With Perez in scoring position, Paige Witalec worked a walk, advancing Perez to third. A wild pitch allowed Perez to sprint home, giving Hunter a crucial 1-0 lead.
Hunter's offense continued to apply pressure in the fourth inning. Grace Basil kick-started the rally with a single to second base. Despite a fielder's choice and a pop-out, Hunter managed to load the bases. Kierra Shaw then came through in the clutch, delivering a single to the pitcher that brought home Brianna Flores, who was pinch running for Witalec, extending the Hawks' lead to 2-0.
In the top of the sixth inning, Hunter added an insurance run to their tally. Shaw once again played a pivotal role, leading off the inning with a bunt single. Olivia Palumbo laid down a sacrifice bunt, moving Shaw into scoring position. Perez popped up to second base for the second out, but Samantha Marsala reached on a fielding error by the first baseman, allowing Shaw to race home and extend Hunter's lead to 3-0.
Defensively, T'ea Panagakos was impressive on the mound, tossing a complete game shutout. She kept Rutgers-Newark's hitters off balance throughout the game, allowing only four hits while striking out two batters, stifling Rutgers-Newark's offense.
