Softball team defeats Hope, 5-1, in 11 innings

The Olivet College softball team scored four unearned runs in the 11th inning and defeated Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) foe Hope College, 5-1, this afternoon at Buys Field in Holland. The second game was suspended because of darkness.

The Lady Comets (6-7, 1-2 MIAA) scored their first run in the second inning. Senior Jenna Little (Ortonville Brandon High School) led the inning off with a single. She moved to second base on a sacrifice bunt and to third base on a single by senior Taneisha Pointer (Lansing Everett High School). Sophomore Andrea Mroczek (Marlette High School) hit a two-out single to score Little. The Flying Dutch (7-8, 0-1 MIAA) tied the score in the bottom of the seventh with a home run.

After three scoreless extra frames, Olivet scored what proved to be the winning run when junior Lindsey Daniels (Galesburg Augusta High School) hit a ball that was misplayed by the Hope centerfielder. After a strikeout, junior Jenn Newland (Tekonsha High School) walked to load the bases. Senior Kari Munson (Lansing Eastern High School) then hit a bases clearing double. The Dutch went down 1-2-3 in the bottom of the inning with a flyout to each of the Olivet outfielders.

At the plate, Mroczek was three-for-five to lead the Comets. Munson was two-for-six with two doubles and three RBI. Sophomore Erica Anderson (Casnovia/Kent City High School) went the distance in the pitching circle, scattering four base hits and striking out four batters.

Hope is leading the second game, 3-1, after five innings. The game will be resumed on a future date.

The Comets will continue MIAA play this Saturday, April 3, when they host Calvin College. The first pitch of the doubleheader is slated for 1 p.m.