EUGENE, Ore – Simpson University, ranked No. 6 in the NAIA preseason coaches' poll, began the year with a pair of wins on Saturday, knocking off the Beacons, 5-2 and 5-0.
Â
NCU drew first blood in game one, when
Caitlyn Messman scored on a double by
Avery Daniels. NCU's second run came in the top of the seventh inning on a sacrifice fly from
Madi Novelli (pictured), scoring
Paige Griffith.
Â
Griffith had two stolen bases in the game for the Beacons, each time after getting on via base on balls.
Â
Katie Walker got the call in the circle to open the year, allowing five earned on seven hits while striking out one.
Â
NCU was unable to score but doubled their hitting output in game two, getting singles from
Ereanna Higbee and Novelli.
Janieve Boyles went the distance, allowing three earned runs in six innings of work while striking out one.
Â
The Beacons will be back in action on Sunday, playing two more against Simpson at 9:00 am and 11:00 am.Â
Â