May 7, 2008

Box Score

Akron, Ohio - The Miami softball team fell to Western Michigan in a 10-inning thriller, 4-2, in the opening game of the Mid-American Conference Tournament on Wednesday.

Shortstop Sarah Billstrom and centerfielder Breanna Robinson provided the offense for Miami in the game, driving in the two RedHawk runs. The two have accounted for 42 percent of the team's RBI this season, driving in 71 of Miami's 171 runs.

Sophomore pitchers Meredith Linch and Shalise Lugo each saw action in the circle for MU, combining to give up four runs, only three of which were earned, on eight hits, while striking out 14 Western Michigan batters.

The Broncos struck first in the opening game of the MAC Tournament, scoring twice in the top of the fourth inning on two hits, a walk and a fielder's choice.

In the bottom of the sixth inning, Billstrom cut the Western Michigan lead to 2-1, when she drove a line drive into centerfield, scoring Halle Popson from third base. With the RBI, Billstrom is now the fourth player on the RedHawks roster with at least 20 runs batted in.

Senior outfielder Breanna Robinson brought Meghan Mawn home from second base with a single to centerfield, tying the game at two runs aside. Robinson leads the MAC in runs batted in with 51 on the year.

After three straight scoreless innings, Lexi Jager broke the tie for WMU in the top of the 10th inning, with a two-run shot over the left field fence. The home run was Jager's fifth of the season.

The RedHawks take the field again on Thursday, as Miami will play the loser of the Kent State-Akron match up. The game is slated for an 11 a.m. start.