LAWRENCEVILLE, N.J. – The Fairfield University softball team dropped a pair of games against Rider University as the Broncs posted a 7-1 win in the first game and a 2-1 decision in the second game.
In the first game, Rider loaded the bases with no one out before the Stags were able to record the first out on a grounder to third base which cut down the runner at home. The next batter hit a grounder to the left side which was misplayed, resulting in a pair of unearned runs for the Broncs. Rider added run later in the inning off a base hit, the third single of the frame.
The Stags scored their only run of the game in the second inning after loading the bases with one out. The run came home following an infield error at third base, keeping all bases occupied before a pair of strike outs ended the threat.
The home team added to its lead with a run of its own in the bottom of the second, putting together a double and a single to regain its three-run lead at 4-1. The Broncs added to their lead with a solo home run in the fifth inning and a two-run double in the sixth inning for the final score.
The second game came down to two plays as each team scored all of its runs off one at-bat. The Broncs started the scoring in the third inning, a rally which began with Jessie Niegocki picked up a base hit. She came around to score off a home run from Maddie Luedtke who launched a ball over the left-center fence.
Fairfield also scored its run in the top of the sixth inning despite the first two hitters being retired on ground outs.
Allie Bridgman started the scoring chance with a base hit before yielding to
Darby Weller on the base paths.
Delaney Whieldon was next in the batter's box and she delivered a triple to right field, putting the Stags within one run at 2-1.
The Stags were retired in order in the top of the seventh inning with a strikeout and two foul ball pop ups.
Bailey Taylor pitched a solid game in the circle for Fairfield, allowing just four hits and striking out two batters.
Fairfield will close out its three-game series with Rider University on Sunday afternoon with a single game that is slated for 12 pm. The game will be the Stags' final regular-season road game as they will begin an eight-game home stand next Tuesday with a doubleheader against Quinnipiac University.
