OMAHA, Neb. — The College of Saint Mary softball team doubled up Bellevue University in hits and Shaylynn Campbell fired a complete game five-hitter as the Flames picked up a 4-3 non-conference win over the Bruins in their final non-conference game of the season.
“We had a great day today,” raved head coach Carolyn Todd Bray. “We outhit Bellevue and played errorless defense. I’m proud we were able to put it all together.”
With the win, CSM improves to 10-29 while Bellevue falls to 29-17.
Campbell did a little bit of everything for the Flames. In addition to her complete game in the circle, she finished 3-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI. Her second inning double was one of three extra-base hits by CSM on the evening.
“Shaylynn had an awesome day, both in the circle and at the plate,” said Bray of her hurler.
After a scoreless first inning, Sydney Griffin put the Flames on the board in the top of the second, doubling home Campbell with a shot down the left field line.
Savannah Schewe pushed the lead to 3-0 in the third with a two-run shot to left field. Campbell singled home Ella Watts later in the frame and CSM led 4-0.
A doubled from Madison Machacek in the bottom of the inning provided BU an answer but Campbell retired 10-straight before a two-run shot from Breanne McMurtry in the sixth cut the lead to 4-3.
Campbell struck out Cory Carillo to end the sixth and retired the Bruins in order in the seventh as the Flames held on for the one-run victory.
“We had two diving catches – from Macy Santoni and Watts – that were big plays,” cited Bray, underscoring the defensive effort before continuing by saying, “Sav’s home run was another highlight.”
The game was part of the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Strike Out Cancer Event.
Coach Bray was grateful for the opportunity, saying, “we are thankful to coach Michala Cimino and Bellevue softball for another great day at the ballpark where we had an excellent crowd and raised money to support the Nicki G. Foundation.”
College of Saint Mary hosts Midland University on Thursday, Apr. 25 for a 3 p.m. GPAC double-header where the Flames will honor their lone senior, Savannah Schewe, in the annual Senior Day ceremony.
