Box Score
EVANSVILLE, Ind. – The University of Evansville softball team posted a 4-2 victory over the Bradley Braves tonight in the first of a three-game series at James and Dorothy Cooper Stadium. The Aces put up six hits at the plate in the win.
A pair of Evansville errors led to a one-run first inning for the Braves. The Aces quickly recovered, with a run of their own in the bottom of the frame. Senior Jen Stahlhut led off the inning with her 48th career double, tying Jamie Davison (2001-04) for third place on UE’s all-time record list. Stahlhut was put in motion in an attempt to steal third base, but a wild throw by Bradley’s catcher allowed her to continue home, tying the score at 1-1.
In the bottom of the second inning, sophomore Brianna Villanueva reached base on another Bradley throwing error before moving to second with her fifth stolen base of the season. Sophomore Halie Malone then came through with a hard single through the left side to score Villanueva and give the Aces a 2-1 lead.
The Braves were able to tie the score in the top of the third, as Brittany Fairbairn drove in Julie Sherman with a single through the left side.
Tied 2-2 in the bottom of the third, the Aces took advantage of a walk and the third Bradley error of the game to score senior Kelci Alsip, regaining the lead at 3-2.
Evansville added its fourth run of the game in the bottom of the sixth inning thanks to the help of three more errors in the Bradley infield.
Freshman pitcher Taylor Perry claimed the win on the mound, improving to 4-10 on the season. Perry went the distance, scattering eight hits and striking out three Bradley batters in the complete game appearance.
The Aces (12-37, 6-16) will return to the diamond tomorrow to wrap up the Missouri Valley Conference series tomorrow with a doubleheader beginning at 1:00 CDT. Tomorrow's game will serve as "Senior Day" for the UE softball program, as Alsip and Stahlhut will both be honored and recognized for their careers at UE.
