WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – After two hard-fought games, the Salem College softball team fell short as the Brandeis University softball team came from behind in both ends of a doubleheader Monday to defeat the Spirits, 5-3 and 5-2.
Game 1
While in game one Kayla Ogle faced 29 batters, struck out 10 batters and allowed 9 total hits. Miranda Barker came in during the final inning to help close out the game and get the Spirits back in the batter's box.
"I have to say that the team was not their normal selves," Spirits Head Coach Kiersten Garner said. "They did not come into this day mentally ready in some aspects, but there is always something to take away from a game. Burch opened the door for us and I thought we would start stringing more hits together, but unfortunately, that didn't happen."
At the plate, the Spirits fell behind with only 4 total hits, but with one of those hits by junior Madison Burch, drove in Salem's 3 runs on the board. Salem left 4 runners on base and had an unusually high number of strikeouts for the team with 6.
Game 2
After a quick first inning, the spirits finished up the second inning of game two with two runs on the scoreboard. From there the Spirits started to see more pitches get themselves into a bit of a bind.
"When you are seeing good pitches early on in the count, that's when you need to start making your adjustments. Those pitches are going to be the best ones you see at any at bat you step into."
The Spirits drew 3 total walks and left 7 runners on base which is critical to capitalize on in lower scoring games.
The Spirits will not return to the field in Macon, GA at Wesleyan College on March 2nd. The games scheduled for Feb. 23 & 24th have been canceled due to weather conditions predicted to hit the triad.