JERSEY CITY, N.J. — The Hunter College softball team traveled to New Jersey City University for a non-conference double header on Tuesday afternoon. The Hawks (5-9) flashed resilience and offensive potential, jumping ahead early in Game 1 and battling through a tight contest in Game 2 before ultimately falling 12-4 and 9-1 on the road.

Game 1: Hunter 4, NJCU 4

The Purple and Gold came out swinging in the opener, erupting for four runs in the second inning to erase an early deficit. Sophomore Elizabeth Thompson sparked the offense with an RBI infield single, while second baseman Jessica Fowler followed with a sharp base hit to plate another. 

Senior, Olivia Palumbo capped the frame by forcing a misplay that allowed two more runners to score, giving Hunter a 4-1 lead.

Freshman pitcher Isabella Thumhart kept the Hawks in the game through five innings, showing poise in the circle against a potent lineup. While NJCU (12-4) rallied late, Thumhart's competitive outing and Hunter's strong second-inning rally highlighted the team's offensive potential and energy.

Thompson, Fowler, and catcher Adriana Ramirez each tallied a hit, and Thumhart reached base and scored, showcasing her all-around contributions, despite the loss.

Game 2: Hunter 1, NJCU 9

In the second game of the day the Hawks continued to show their fight. After falling behind by a run in the third inning, Hunter responded in the fourth as Thumhart delivered again — this time with a clutch RBI single that scored pinch runner Amanda Rivera and tied the game at 1-1. It was part of a two-hit day for Thumhart, who continues to shine in her debut season.

Five different Hawks registered hits in the nightcap, including seniors Palumbo, and Nicole Bowe, as well as Ramirez, and Grace Basil. Basil also delivered a gutsy performance in the circle, striking out three and working deep into the sixth inning before a late NJCU surge opened the gap.

Despite the final scores, the Hawks left Jersey City with signs of progress and plenty of positives to build on. Strong at-bats from their underclassmen, aggressive baserunning, and moments of sharp defensive play all point to a team on the rise. 

Hunter will look to turn its growing confidence into wins as the squad returns to action on Mach 27 for another road double header at Ramapo College. First pitch is slated for 3:00 p.m.