Tucson, Ariz. - The Dakota Wesleyan softball put together a commanding performance, sweeping Benedictine Mesa (AZ) Wednesday afternoon with a 5-2 win and a 8-4 victory to improve to 12-3 on the season.
Game 1: Dakota Wesleyan 5, Benedictine Mesa (AZ) 2
Dakota Wesleyan battled a gritty 5-2 victory over Benedictine Mesa (AZ) on Wednesday, leaning on strong pitching and solid defense to extend its winning streak in Arizona.
The Redhawks struck first, scoring two early runs, but the Tigers answered with a three-run third inning before tacking on two more insurance runs. McKinnely Mull and Ashlen Johnson led the offense, accounting for four of the team's six hits, with Mull driving in three RBIs.
Pitcher Alison Ernsberger was dominant in the circle, allowing just a few hits while walking three and striking out six in a complete-game performance. Dakota Wesleyan's defense played a key role in securing the win.
Game 2: Dakota Wesleyan 8, Benedictine Mesa (AZ) 4
Dakota Wesleyan followed up its win with another strong performance, defeating Benedictine Mesa (AZ) 8-4 behind an explosive offensive display and solid pitching.
The Tigers racked up 12 hits, led by Peyton Bagley, who went 3-for-4 with a run scored. Elle Feser and Ashlen Johnson each drove in two runs to fuel the offense.
Keirstyn Krcil started in the circle, pitching 4.2 innings while allowing three runs and striking out two. Alison Ernsberger closed out the game with 2.1 innings of relief, surrendering just one run and striking out two. The duo combined for four strikeouts and one walk to secure the victory.
Up Next
The Tigers will spend the week in Tucson competing against schools across the NAIA.