Erie, PA- Although it took some snow removal, the Mercyhurst Softball team welcomed the Griffins of Seton Hill for their home opener on Sunday afternoon. Dropping their first two PSAC games against California earlier this week, the Lakers came up short against the Griffins on Sunday in game one, 10-0, but won game two, 5-4. Mercyhurst is now 5-12 on the year and 1-3 in conference play. 

How it Happened: 

Game One 

Lexi North had a stellar start to game one of the doubleheader, throwing 3 scoreless innings. The Griffins finally found success in the middle innings of the game however, as they scored 10 runs in three innings to win game one, 10-0.  

The Lakers failed to get anything going offensively, earning only two hits, which came off the bats of Madison Fry-Fachet and Alexandra Acosta-Reyes.  

Game Two 

The Lakers didn't let the first game result get them down to start the second. Despite falling behind in the top half of the 4th inning, 2-0, the Lakers responded with 5 runs in the bottom of the 4th to gain a commanding lead. Morgan Hilty put together a strong start, quieting the Griffin bats through the first three frames. After the Griffins strung a few runs together in the 4th and 5th to make it a 5-4 game, Mikaela Schramski came in in relief to shut it down, throwing 2.1 innings of scoreless ball while striking out 5.  

The big inning started with an Alexandra Acosta-Reyes single. She then stole second and was driven home by a Bailey Cannon single. Cameryn Mullaly then reached on a fielder's choice which scored Bailey Cannon. The fielder's choice was followed up by a Kacie Irwin double, which cleared the bases to push a 4th and 5th run across.  

Marisa Cartellone, Kacie Irwin, and Neena Pietripaolo led the Lakers offensively with 2 hits apiece.  

Up Next: 

The Lakers will remain home to begin the week as they host Slippery Rock University on Tuesday, March 26th before traveling to UPJ and IUP over the weekend.