Softball tops Merrimack, drops 1-0 thriller to No. 6 Winona State

CLERMONT, FL (March 7, 2010) - The Kutztown University softball took Sunday's opener over Merrimack by a score of 3-1 before dropping a 1-0 duel against No. 6 ranked Winona State at the National Training Center in Clermont, Florida.

The No. 9 ranked Golden Bears (10-6) snapped a three game losing streak with an explosive third inning. A double by centerfielder Maria Schiavo plated Jennifer Stow for the first of three runs. Nicole Colineri reached on an error, advancing Schiavo. Katie Lynch then reached on an error by the first baseman, scoring Schiavo and Colineri later crossed on another Merrimack miscue.

With the early 3-0 cushion, Katlin Arbogast kept the Warriors silent thoughout most of the game, tying a season-high 12 strikeouts. Arbogast scattered three hits throughout the seven innings and only allowed two baserunners on at the same time in the second inning. A sixth inning home run by Monique Gosselin ruined the shut out bid.

The second game proved to be quite the pitcher's duel between two of the nation's top-10 teams. Arbogast took the circle for KU and Stacey Struzynski got the nod for Winona State. The Golden Bears were unable to reach second base, while the Warriors did not reach scoring position until the sixth inning.

Katie Moriarty singled and stole second base to set the stage for the only run of the contest. Kaitlin Hardie followed with a single to give the winning margin.

Arbogast again pitched a complete game, but was the hardluck loser. In six innings, Arbogast scattered five hits and struck out nine. In the past 22 innings of work, Arbogast has struck out 35 batters.

Lynch and Stow each collected singles for the Golden Bears.

The Golden Bears will have an early doubleheader on Monday, starting with Assumption College at 9:30 a.m. and St. Joseph's (In) at 11:30.

--KU--

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