The Mount Marty softball team faced Northwestern and Briar Cliff over the weekend. The Lancers were highlighted by a dominant performance from Makayla Hudson and a resilient pitching effort in a split against Briar Cliff.
Briar Cliff (Split 1-1)
Game 1: Briar Cliff 8, Mount Marty 5
The Lancers jumped out to a commanding 5-0 lead, but a late-inning surge by the Chargers spoiled the series opener.
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Makayla Hudson (The Power): Hudson was a one-woman wrecking crew, blasting two home runs and finishing with 3 RBIs.
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Early Explosion: The Lancers scored four runs in the 1st inning, fueled by RBI doubles from Kayleen Jacinto and Brooke Richardson.
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Jacey Hayen: Battled through 6.0 tough innings, striking out eight batters in a no-decision.
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Brigid McGill: Kept the line moving with a multi-hit game, going 2-for-3.
Game 2: Mount Marty 6, Briar Cliff 1
The Lancers bounced back immediately, playing "small ball" and relying on a gem in the circle to earn the split.
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Lainey Van Zee (The Ace): Van Zee was masterful, tossing a 7.0-inning complete game while allowing just one run. She also showcased her speed on the bases with two stolen bases.
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Megan Toplovich: Came through in the clutch, going 2-for-2 with an RBI and two runs scored.
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Sara Ocegueda-Aguilar: Delivered a massive two-run single in the 6th inning to provide the final insurance.
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Brooke Richardson: Stayed hot at the plate, going 2-for-3 and scoring twice.
Northwestern (Iowa) (Lost 0-2)
Game 3: Northwestern 16, Mount Marty 2 (5 Innings)
The Red Raiders' offense proved too much to handle in a run-rule shortened contest.
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Makayla Hudson: Continued her productive week by driving in both Lancer runs with a two-run single in the 1st inning.
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Kalli Boom: Was a bright spot in the lineup, finishing 2-for-3 with two doubles.
Game 4: Northwestern 10, Mount Marty 3
Mount Marty fought hard in the finale, but defensive miscues and a 14-hit attack from Northwestern sealed the sweep.
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Kayleen Jacinto (The Highlight): Jacinto put on a show, going 3-for-4 with a triple. In the 6th inning, she drove in a run with her triple and then promptly stole home.
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Makayla Hudson: Remained consistent, adding a double to her weekly totals.
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Lainey Van Zee: Showed incredible durability, throwing 130 pitches in a 7.0-inning complete game effort despite the loss.
Top Lancer Performers
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Makayla Hudson: 6 Hits, 2 HR, 7 RBIs
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Kayleen Jacinto: 5 Hits, 2 Double, 1 Triple, 2 RBIs, 1 Stolen Base (Home)
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Lainey Van Zee: 14.0 Total IP, 1 Win, 2 Stolen Bases
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Kalli Boom: 4 Hits, 2 Doubles, 1 RBI, 1 Stolen Base