Lady Lions Softball Sweeps Geneva

Lady Lions Softball Sweeps Geneva

BEAVER FALLS, Pa. – Penn State Altoona softball resumed its schedule on Saturday afternoon, when it picked up a sweep of non-conference opponent Geneva College by scores of 6-3 and 10-8 at Conrady Field.

"We ignored the elements today, and being a bit shorthanded, really grinded out two excellent wins. This team has a lot of grit to it and stuck together to come back and win game two," said Penn State Altoona head coach Joe Merilli. "I am so proud of every player on this team. We hit the ball better today than I have seen us hit late in a game since I have been here. I have way too many players individually to mention, so we will just say it was a great team sweep. Now we need to carry the momentum into next week and keep building our confidence."

Haley Giedroc (Howard, PA/Bald Eagle) batted 2-for-4 with a double and two runs scored in game one, while Emily Strouse (Beech Creek, PA/Central Mountain) was 2-for-4 with a triple, three runs batted in, and a run scored.

Strouse got the start in the circle, pitching a complete game to pick up her third win of the season. In seven innings, she limited Geneva to just three runs.

In game two, Giedroc led Penn State Altoona at the plate by going 3-for-4 with a triple, one RBI, and two runs scored. Olivia Miller (West Newton, PA/Yough) was 2-for-4 with a triple, an RBI, and two runs scored, and Jenna Myers (Garnet Valley, PA/Garnet Valley) was 2-for-4 with a double, an RBI, and two runs scored.

Jessica Willits (Jersey Shore, PA/Jersey Shore) and Strouse finished with two RBI apiece.

Faith Barnett (Todd, PA/Tussey Mountain) started in the circle and pitched 2 2/3 innings, taking a no decision. Strouse tossed 1 1/3 scoreless innings, and Ellie Leyo (Irvona, PA/Glendale) pitched three innings in her collegiate pitching debut and picked up her first career win.

Lady Lions softball returns to action on Monday, March 19 when it will host non-conference opponent Saint Vincent College for a 3:00 p.m. doubleheader at Stewart Athletic Field.