NEWBERG, Ore. --- The George Fox softball fell just short in their first game, losing in extra innings against the La Verne Leopards, but battled back to win another close game in their second attempt on Friday at Morse Athletic Field.

Game One

Though Fox fell in a low-scoring  first game, it was not without theatrics. After two scoreless innings to start the game, La Verne broke the tie in the top of the third inning, scoring two runs. The Leopards lead was extended to 3-0 in the top of the fourth when Jillian Gellatly ran home after an attempted steal. 

Fox was able to close the gap in the bottom of the fourth when Kamryn Potter slammed a solo shot over the fence to cut the lead to 3-1, but the next two innings yielded nothing. With 2 outs in the bottom of the seventh inning when all hope seemed to be lost, Claire Fountain hit a two-run homer that sent the Bruin dugout into a frenzy.

Fountain's two-run shot tied the game, 3-3, and sent the game into extra innings for the first time this year. Unfortunately for the Bruins, Fountain's late game heroics would not be enough. Natalia Aguilera's RBI single proved to be the game-winning run, as Fox was unable to score in the bottom of the eighth, losing 3-4.

Game Two

After a tough, defensive battle in the first game, the bats came alive for both teams in the second. The Leopards and Bruins combined for five home runs in the second game. The first home-run came from Emma Classen in the second inning with the score tied 1-1. Her two-run bomb gave the Bruins three runs, equaling their run total from the game prior.

It would not take long for the Bruins to send another ball over the fence. Just one pitch later, Sydney Sandifer sent another ball into the forest, giving Fox a 4-1 lead at the end of the third inning. 

This time around, it would be the Leopards with a comeback attempt, hitting two home runs of their own. Marrissa Acosta's homer in the top of the sixth tied the game, 5-5. The Bruins, as calm as ever, made sure they would regain the lead quickly. Sharon Tomei's homer would be the winning one, as the Bruins were victorious, 6-5.

Top Performances

Brooke Riggins and Jamryn Potter led the way for the Bruins with three hits in the game, while Ashley Sansoni and Claire Fountain had two RBIs each. E Emma Eastman picked up the win as pitcher in the win for the Bruins.

What It Means

Fox's record sits at 15-9 overall this season, while the Leopards now hold a 15-8 mark.

Up Next

The Bruins will be back in action at home on Saturday to take on the Whittier for a non conference doubleheader. The first pitch is scheduled for noon.