(Glendale, AZ) For the first time in program history, the Park Gilbert softball team defeated the Firestorm of Arizona Christian University 6-4 in an action packed game that concluded after 11 innings. Prior to the win, the Buccaneers were 0-7 with the cross-town rivals.
It was a battle of the pitchers to start the night. Both Mariah Martinez and ACU’s Savannah Smith allowed zero hits up until the fourth frame. Smith went on to retire three batters in three separate innings.
The night’s first few runs came at the bat of Martinez. She smacked a crucial two RBI homer that gave her team an early lead. Two outfield errors in the bottom of the fourth allowed Claire Buckley from ACU to cross home and put their first run on the board.
Park tacked on another run in the ninth thanks to a Danielle Farinas single base hit up right field that drove Ledezma Romero through home. The Firestorm responded with a run of their own in the bottom of the inning to tie the game up 3-3. Farinas would go one to finish 2-5 with one RBI on the night.
Natalie Castro added another run to their score as the game went into ten innings. Once again, ACU answered with a run, this time it was the result of Kaitlin Terzakos doubling to left field and sending Abbie Covalt through home plate.
Concluding the 11 inning match up, the Buccaneers added on two more runs that gave them the 6-4 lead.
After a grueling nine innings, Abril Nerey stepped into the circle to close out the game. She allowed one hit in two innings. Martinez also had a successful evening, with five strikeouts and four hits in the first nine frames.
The Bucs return to action against Embry-Riddle University (AZ) for a four game series on April 14 and 15 in Prescott, Ariz. Games are scheduled to start at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., with day two games starting at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.
Press Release courtesy of Park University Athletics – Lainie Hallows
Use Promo 520602SportsTalk & receive 20% off
