Northwestern softball edges Saint Xavier in NAIA Playoffs

SIOUX CENTER, IOWA (NORTHWESTERN) — The second and third innings saw the Raiders score a run each, making each run matter in a one-run win over Saint Xavier (Ill.) in NAIA Opening Round action.

“It was great to be in Sioux Center today with all of our Red Raider fans,” head coach Shane Bouman said. “We pitched pretty well, played solid defense, and got some key hits. Any time you can go 1-0 it’s good, so we’re excited to get back at it tomorrow.”

NWC 2, SXU 1
Pitching Decisions
Win: Kameryn Etherington (23-4)
Loss: L. Summers (20-7)
Save: None

How It Happened
Northwestern scored first in the second inning, putting together a two-out rally led by a long at-bat and walk for Ashtyn Billings , followed by Maddie Kvatek’s RBI single that sent Billings home for the game’s first run.

A leadoff single by Jori Hajek started the third inning, while she advanced by a fielding error on the same play. After a sacrifice bunt by Kameryn Etherington sent Hajek to third, Chloe Gallegos hit a two-out single, making the score 2-0.

Saint Xavier threatened in the top of the seventh, setting up on a leadoff single and later loading the bases with one away. An RBI groundout cut the deficit in half, but the Raiders forced a ground ball to third to get the final out and advance in the winner’s bracket.

Game Notes:

• Kameryn Etherington became the program leader in career wins, earning her 82 ^nd win in the circle.
• Maddie Kvatek drove in a run, going 1-for-2.
• Ashtyn Billings drew a walk, scored a run, and stole a base.
• Chloe Gallegos went 1-for-3 with an RBI.
• Etherington threw a complete game, striking out four for her 23 ^rd win of the year.
• Northwestern will seek its first 50-win season in program history.

Up Next : The Raiders will stay in the winner’s bracket, facing Madonna (Mich.) tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. in Sioux Center.

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