Softball team splits doubleheader at Siena Heights

The Olivet College softball team split a doubleheader this afternoon at non-conference foe Siena Heights University in Adrian. The Lady Comets lost the first game, 3-2, in eight innings, and rallied to win the nightcap, 6-5.

In the first game, Olivet had a 2-0 lead after five innings. The Saints tied the game with two runs in the sixth and scored the game-winning run with one out in the eighth. The Comets had seven base hits in the game, including two by junior Jill Shufelt (Millington High School). Senior Kari Munson (Lansing Eastern High School) had a RBI double, and junior Beth Shunkwiler (Berrien Center/Berrien Springs High School) hit a sacrifice fly for the Comets.

Sophomore Erica Anderson (Casnovia/Kent City High School) was the hard luck loser for Olivet after pitching seven and one-third innings and allowing six hits and two earned runs. She struck out five batters and walked one.

In the nightcap, which was shortened to six innings because of darkness, Siena Heights scored four runs in the second inning. The Comets then erupted for five runs in the fifth and the game-winner in the sixth on a single by senior Jenna Little (Ortonville/Brandon High School).

Olivet had 11 base hits in the game with Little, Shunkwiler, senior Kim Horanburg (Grand Ledge High School) and junior Jenn Newland (Tekonsha High School) picking-up two hits apiece. Five different players drove in a run.

Newland earned the victory in the pitching circle. She pitched the last one and two-thirds innings and allowed one base hit. She struck out three batters. Sophomore Carrie Abbott (Bad Axe High School) started the game in the circle.

The Comets are next in action on Saturday, March 27, when they open Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association play at home against Albion College at 1 p.m.