May 18, 2007

Simon Fraser University bangs out 17 hits in 11-1 victory over Columbia (Mo.) College at NAIA Softball National Championship

DECATUR, Ala. - Erin McLean and Rebecca Hartley combined to drive in seven runs as Simon Fraser University defeated Columbia (Mo.) College 11-1 in five innings at the 2007 NAIA Softball National Championship Friday (May 18) morning at Wilson Morgan Park.

The fourth-ranked Clan improved to 21-2 overall and to 1-0 in Pool B while the Region V champion Cougars fell to 28-17 and 0-1. Simon Fraser next plays Lee University at 2:30 p.m. later today while Columbia College will host Oklahoma City University at 5 p.m.

The Clan got all the runs they would need as they three times on four hits in the opening inning against Katie McMahon (17-20).

Every starter for Simon Fraser collected at least one hit in the victory. McLean, Hartley and Christine Barr each collected three hits.  Hartley, who had a three-run homer in the fifth, drove in four runs for the Clan while McLean added 3 RBI. Melanie Matthews, Terra Davenport and Carly Moir each contributed two hits in the win.

Stephanie Stowe accounted for the Cougar run in the bottom of the first with a double to left of SFU starter Jennifer Schreyer (15-1). Rachel Brawner led Columbia as she went 2-for-2 at the plate.