The Ave Maria Lady Gyrenes from Southern Florida defeated Penn State Hazleton 4-0 on the arm of Second Team All-American Cheyenne Benson. The sophomore pitcher struck out 10 while holding the Lady Lions to just 1 hit. That lone hit came from freshman catcher Erin Dougherty in the top of the second inning.
As part of a three run second inning, Ave Maria third baseman Jesseina Gonzalez hit a 2-run single that scored Miranda Dessecker and Marlie Brady to give the Gyrens all the offense they would need. Later, Brandi Griswold dropped down a sacrifice bunt that to scored center fielder, Alexandra Campbell to extend the score to 4-0. Penn State Hazleton's lone hit came from freshman catcher Erin Dougherty.
The Gyrenes will advance to the semi-finals to take on the winner of #2 Lindenwood University-Belleville and #10 Penn College at 12:00pm on Tuesday, May 13 at Firestone Stadium. Penn State Hazleton will take on #7 NHTI on Tuesday at 2:00pm and try to stay alive in the double-elimination tournament.
