March 21, 2009

Box Score

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Loyola University Chicago (13-7, 2-0 Horizon) rallied to post a 6-5 victory in eight innings over Youngstown State (2-16, 0-2 Horizon) this afternoon to complete a doubleheader sweep. Winners of four straight games overall, the Ramblers swept a doubleheader to open Horizon League play for the first time since 2007.

The Ramblers' offense accounted for 11 hits in the thrilling contest that featured rallies from both clubs. Much like game one earlier today, Loyola got on the board first, taking a 1-0 lead in the second inning thanks to Kristen Medrud's solo home run. The Ramblers appeared to be in control after a three-run third inning that extended the lead to 4-0, with the big hit coming in the form of a two-run single from freshman Lauren Arceneaux.

Youngstown State chipped away at the deficit with a run in the third inning, then drew even in the fourth courtesy of a three-run home run off the bat of Kim Klonowski.

Loyola stormed back in the sixth and regained a one-run edge when Alexandra Trudnich led off with a double and scored on an error one out later. Klonowski provided another long ball to even the score, this one a solo shot, with one away in the seventh inning, to force extra innings.

Trudnich opened the extra frame with her first career homer, a solo blast to right center, and Seana Stillson came on in relief to pick up her first career save, striking out Autumn Grove with two runners on to preserve the win.

Amy Solava improved to 5-5 on the year by pitching 7.0 innings and striking out six, while also helping her cause by going 3-for-3 at the plate. Trudnich wound up with a 3-for-4 effort and scored a pair of runs in addition to her game-winning home run.

Loyola and Youngstown State wrap up their three-game weekend series with a single game tomorrow at 11 a.m. Eastern.