March 15, 2009

Box Score

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Loyola University Chicago (9-7) managed three hits off starter Briana Hassett and dropped a 5-0 decision to Minnesota (14-16) this afternoon in its final game at the Courtyard by Marriott Airport Cardinal Softball Tournament. The Ramblers finish the competitive three-day weekend tournament, which saw them play two nationally ranked teams, with a 1-3 ledger.

Minnesota took the lead in the top of the third inning and never looked back, as Shannon Stemper drove in Malisa Barnes with a bases-loaded walk. The Gophers tacked on a pair of runs in the fourth when Katie Dalen's two-out double brought Sammie Howard across the plate and later in the inning, Dalen scored on a Rambler error to put Minnesota on top, 3-0.

Loyola was unable to generate much offense against Hassett, as it posted just one hit, a single by Bridget Lally, in the first five innings of the game.

Ellen Kresl and Kristen Medrud each went 1-for-3 and recorded Loyola's only other hits off Hassett, who struck out 10 batters.

The Ramblers are back in action when they travel to Northern Illinois for a doubleheader Wednesday, March 18, beginning at 3 p.m.