PENDLETON, Ind. - Erin Falkenberry's three-run homer keyed a seven-run first inning as Butler University stayed alive with a 12-4 victory over Loyola University in five innings Saturday in the Horizon League Softball Championship at Legends Field in Pendleton, Ind.
After a Loyola error allowed another a fourth run to score, Alex Boros added a three-run double, and the Bulldogs (26-27) were never threatened. Annie Dolan's three-run home run in the second boosted the lead to 10-0 before going up 12-0 in the fourth.
Breanna Fisher (14-14) kept the Ramblers (28-24) in check with one run through four. Jenna Grim's three-run homer in the bottom of the fifth nearly enabled Loyola to extend the game, but pinchrunner Stephanie Cihlar was caught stealing, and Fisher struck out pinchhitter Angie Funston to end the game in five.
Butler advances to the next elimination game against third-seeded Wright State University at 11 a.m. ET. The Bulldogs set a school record with their 26th victory of the season.
Loyola starter Amy Solava (14-14) took the loss as she got only one out while giving up three hits and six runs.
Tags: Butler - Softball · Loyola - Softball