Published in the April 14, 2017 edition
THE MELROSE Lady Raider softball team picked up a big win over Belmont on the road Tuesday, 9-3. Pictured is senior captain Victoria Crovo.
By JENNIFER GENTILE
MELROSE—Mother Nature might have spoiled their pre-season, but the sun shined on the Melrose Lady Raider softball team when they opened their season with a road win over Belmont, 9-3 on Tuesday, April 11.
Sophomore hurler Jill Stone went the distance for Melrose, giving up just three runs and securing nine strikeouts in the win. Offensively, it was a collective effort from top to bottom, with nearly every Lady Raider reaching base and crossing the plate. Among those who added to the runs were Saoirse Connolly (and RBI triple) Rachel Pheiffer (2 hits) Josephine Andruszkiewicz, who reached base three times and Rebecca Dumont, who reached base four times,
“It was a total team effort,” said coach Steve Wall. “We had one really big inning, we were able to get to their pitching and capitalize on it. And Jill had a great game on the mound and was able to go the distance.”
Melrose took an early lead and never lost it with scores of 2-1, 3-1, 3-2 until their six-run fifth inning. Meanwhile, defensively, Melrose played a tight game with strong returning players, Victoria Crovo (shortstop), Josephine Andruszkiewicz (third base) Saorise Connolly (first base) and Rebecca Dumont (second base).
“I think defensively, our infield is our strength, it’s certainly where our experience is,” says Wall. “Between hitting, solid pitching from Jill, and just being outside finally, it was a great way to start the season.”
Melrose hopes to pick up another win when they host Lexington on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at Pine Banks.
