FREMONT, Neb. – Midland University’s softball program began its Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC) slate on Saturday afternoon with a home doubleheader against Concordia University. The Warriors earned back-to-back victories, besting the Bulldogs 2-1 in the first game and 7-0 in game two. The wins improve Midland’s record to 15-4, 2-0 in the conference while Concordia’s record falls to 11-11 and 0-2.
GAME ONE: Midland 2, Concordia 1
The day began with a defensive battle, neither side giving up a run until the 4th inning.
Concordia was the first to break the draw using a pair of singles and a stolen base to take a 1-0 advantage.
One inning later, the Bulldogs’ defense recorded two costly errors and the Warriors were able to even the contest. The second of the two errors came after an Emily Prai single to left-center. The outfielder mishandled the ball allowing Sheridan Wayne to score from second base.
Deadlocked at 1-1 late into the 7th inning, the Warriors’ offense looked to be primed for a score with two runners on and no outs. However, the Bulldogs’ defense came up big, catching Ali Smith trying to steal third base and then tagging Diana Nisbett out at home on the ensuing at-bat.
Midland’s defense responded in extras when Carly Pfitzer snatched a line drive out of the air to end the 8th inning, leaving a Concordia runner stranded at third base.
In the bottom of the inning, Prai started things off with a single, and then Aliyah Rincon moved her into scoring position with a sacrifice. With the stage set for a walk-off win, Roni Foote came through in the clutch with a hit to right field. Prai scored easily on the ball that got under the glove of the fielder, capturing the game one win, 2-1.
Statistical Standouts:
- Emily Prai: 3-of-4, R, RBI
- Ariyana Crafton: 2-of-3
- Roni Foote: 1-for-4, GW RBI
- Hailee Fliam: 8.0 IP, ER, 5 K
GAME TWO: Midland 7, Concordia 0
The Warriors’ bats roared to life in the second game, scoring three runs in the 1st inning. On the leadoff at-bat, Emily Prai showcased her speed as she turned an error by the left fielder into a run as she zoomed around the bases before the Bulldogs could corral the ball following their blunder in the outfield.
Later in the inning, Roni Foote drove in Aliyah Rincon with a double to right-center. Then, Ali Smith doubled and scored Foote, putting Midland ahead 3-0.
In the 4th inning, the Warriors had another scoring surge. This one sparked was by a Sheridan Wayne home run to left field. The team combined for a cycle in the inning with hits from Rincon (double), Foote (triple), and Mia Orduna (single) leading to three more runs.
Leading 7-0, Midland shutout Concordia’s offense the rest of the game to earn the doubleheader sweep to begin conference play.
Rincon earned the win in the circle, striking out eight batters and allowing just one hit in the complete-game outing.
Statistical Standouts:
- Roni Foote: 2-of-4, 2 R, 2 RBI, 3B
- Emily Prai: 1-of-3, 2 R
- Sheridan Wayne: 1-of-3, R, RBI, HR
- Aliyah Rincon: 7.0 IP, 0 ER, H, 8 K…1-for-4, 2 R, RBI
Next up for Midland (15-4, 2- 0 GPAC) will be a doubleheader with No. 25 Morningside (11-5, 0-0 GPAC) as home. The Warriors are on an eight-game homestand to start GPAC play. First pitch of game one on Wednesday, March 23 is set for 3:00 p.m. at Christensen Field in Fremont.
