FAIRFAX, Va. — Behind a complete-game shutout from senior pitcher Payton Pepkowski, Loyola Chicago (16-30, 11-10 A-10) edged George Mason 1-0 in the series opener on Saturday, April 26.

"I'm proud of the heart we showed and fire we brought to today's game. We were down at the plate but did enough to push an important run across the board. We always love to see a shutout on the scoreboard and today is no different. Our defense played solid behind Pep [Pepkowski] and we need to show up ready to fight the same way tomorrow for two wins," said head coach Alicia Abbott. 

How It Happened
Pepkowski was dominant in the circle, scattering five hits and striking out seven through seven innings. Loyola broke a scoreless tie in the top of the sixth inning as senior outfielder Riley Owens led off with a single to center field and advanced to second on a wild pitch. Moments later, senior infielder Haley Wallace reached on a throwing error, allowing Owens to score the game's lone run. 

Offensively, the Ramblers got a pair of extra-base hits, with senior infielder Bella Crimaldi doubling in the fourth and junior outfielder Sierra Sass tripling in the seventh. Despite several scoring opportunities, strong defensive plays and timely pitching on both sides kept runs at a minimum. The Patriots threatened in the late innings, putting runners on base in the sixth and seventh, but the Ramblers' defense and Pepkowski's composure preserved the shutout.

Inside the Box Score

• Pepkowski recorded her fourth shutout of the season and fifth game with seven strikeouts. 
• Owens, Crimaldi, Wallace, Sass and Skyler Croker each recorded a hit. 
• Wallace is a on a six-game hitting streak.

Up Next
The Ramblers wrap up their final regular season road series in a doubleheader against the Patriots on Sunday, April 27 at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. CT.