March 14, 2009

Box Score

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - A balanced offensive attack and solid pitching helped Loyola University Chicago (9-6) snap a three-game losing skid and post a 6-2 victory over Minnesota tonight at the Courtyard by Marriott Airport Cardinal Softball Tournament. The Ramblers, who picked up their first victory at the weekend tournament, also registered their first win over a Big Ten Conference opponent since a 3-2 victory over then No. 7 Northwestern on April 17, 2007.

Loyola wasted no time staking claim to a lead as it plated a pair of runs in the bottom of the first inning to take a 2-0 edge and never looked back. Shortstop Haley Ambrosch got the Ramblers on the board with a run-scoring triple to left center and third baseman Angie Funston followed with a double down the left field line that brought home Ambrosch for a 2-0 Loyola advantage.

The Ramblers added to their lead in the bottom of the second when Stevie Bradich led off with a bunt single, moved to second on a wild pitch, and scooted home on Ellen Kresl's RBI single, to extend the edge to 3-0.

Minnesota drew within a run, at 3-2, by scoring twice without the aid of a hit in the top of the third inning, and the Gophers chased Loyola starter Krista Crosson's pursuit of a no-hitter with their first hit of a contest, a single by Sammie Howard, with one out in the fifth.

Funston provided the Ramblers with a cushion by doubling in a pair of runs in the bottom of the fifth and Stephanie Cihlar provided the final margin by singling home Alexandra Trudnich in the sixth.

Crosson was masterful en route to the complete-game win by scattering two hits and striking out five, while not allowing an earned run. Funston went 2-for-3 with a pair of doubles and three RBIs, and Kaycee Tharp also registered a pair of hits for the Ramblers.

Loyola concludes play at the Courtyard by Marriott Airport Cardinal Softball Tournament tomorrow when it faces Minnesota at 1 p.m. Central.