In the first of a three-game series, NIU softball played against Ohio University Friday afternoon in Athens, Ohio.
The Huskies started off the game with a home run from senior Danielle “Dee Dee” Stewart, but the Bobcats responded with five runs of their own in the first inning.
Ohio’s defense kept NIU from scoring as consistently as they hit, and the Bobcats played around all three Huskie pitchers despite being out-hit 12-7. Playing a constant game of catch-up, NIU (8-8, 2-2 MAC) couldn’t get the job done against Ohio (18-10, 2-2 MAC) 11-7.
“Offensively we had a great approach at the plate,” said NIU softball head coach Kathryn Gleason via NIU Athletics. “We out hit them. We will be better on the mound and in the field.”
Stewart’s homer to left field marked her fourth of the season, hitting 4-of-4 and recording 2 doubles. She also logged 2 runs and 2 RBIs. She started in the circle (2-3), but didn’t make an out before being switched to designated player in the lineup. Stewart allowed 5 runs, and threw 3 walks and 2 hit by pitches to take the loss.
Junior Katy Ramage hit 2-of-4, recording her third home run of the season in the seventh inning Her homer to left field remained her solo run scored. Ramage led the team with 4 RBIs.
Sophomore Lia Nance hit a triple in three appearances and scored 1 run. Freshman Izzi Hanna hit 1-of-4 and recorded 2 runs on the day, also stealing one base. Junior Alana Powell went 2-of-3 at the plate.
UP NEXT
The Huskies run it back against the Bobcats in a doubleheader with the first game starting at noon Saturday in Athens, Ohio. Live stats will be updated on StatBroadcast.
