The Sacred Heart University softball team played two tightly contested games against Marist on April 7, ultimately losing both by one run after a combined 19 innings in Poughkeepsie, New York. Marist won the first game 4-3 in nine innings and the second game 7-6 in ten innings.
These results matter as they came against the defending Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) champions and involved several record-setting performances for Sacred Heart. The doubleheader showcased competitive play from both teams, with extra-inning drama highlighting the afternoon.
In the opener, pitcher Sam Kowalski set a new program record for strikeouts during Sacred Heart’s Division I era, reaching a career total of 599. She also contributed offensively with her first multi-home run game, collecting three runs batted in and scoring twice across both games. Despite trailing early due to a three-run homer by Marist in the first inning of game one, Sacred Heart rallied to tie but fell short when Marist scored in the bottom of the ninth.
The second game saw more back-and-forth action. Elle Leckrone hit a solo home run early for Sacred Heart and later tied the score with an RBI double. Kowalski continued her strong performance at bat with two home runs, becoming tied for most home runs this season within MAAC play and moving into the top-20 nationally for strikeouts this year at 130. Emily Heath pitched over nine innings but took the loss after Marist broke a tie in extra frames following an error and walk.
Additional notes from these games include it being Sacred Heart’s first loss in a MAAC series opener this season and their third consecutive extra-inning contest. Moore also hit her first home run of the season during these matchups.
Looking ahead, Sacred Heart will host Fairfield beginning Saturday, April 11 at 1 p.m., where they will celebrate Senior Day.
