STAFF REPORTS
news@allwnynews.com
TOLEDO, Ohio – The University at Buffalo softball team lost their series finale to the Toledo Rockets 5-1 on Sunday afternoon.
The Bulls started strong in the first inning with back-to-back base hits from the leadoff freshman Jenelle Martinez and freshman Gabby Keller. But unfortunately the Bulls were unable to score anyone.
Toledo scored first in the bottom of the first inning with two runs. The Rockets added an additional two runs in the bottom of the third to increase their lead 4-0.
The Bulls tried to rally in the top of the 4th inning after the first four batters reached base safely. Junior Danielle Lallos got things started for the Bulls with a leadoff single to right field and sophomore Catrell Robertson followed with a single to the left side. Freshman Jessica Goldyn dropped a bunt down the third base line and Toledo made the fielder’s choice in an attempt to get Lallos out at third, but the Rockets were unsuccessful.
With the bases loaded senior Essence Savinon hit a weak ground ball to the third baseman Courtney Heinritz, but a fielding error allowed everyone to advance one and the Bulls got on the board. However, their luck would soon run out as Robertson was called out at the plate and ejected from the game, which was followed by two consecutive outs to end the inning.
Toledo added their final run in the sixth inning after a bunt single was followed by a few Buffalo errors.
Brieanna Baker took the loss after only two innings of work. She allowed six hits and three earned runs.
“Today was frustrating because my girls are working so hard and nothing has been going our way,” said head coach Trena Peel. “We are making errors, but it’s not due to lack of effort. We are playing the game hard and sliding into bases and then we have controversial calls at the plate that results in an ejection. Catrell is not a dirty player and was not trying to hurt anyone. With all that being said, I know that if we can find consistency on defense and get healthy we are going to start winning a lot more games.”
The Bulls will be back in action on Tuesday as they travel to Akron for a midweek MAC doubleheader. First pitch is scheduled for 1pm. Both games will air on ESPN3.
