Feb. 20, 2012

Game 1 Box Score | Game 2 Box Score

GREENVILLE, S.C. - Megan McQueen had a hit and an RBI in the first game and Erin Galloway went 2-for-3, with two stolen bases in game two as the Oakland softball team dropped its opening day doubleheader against Furman 6-1, 6-2 on Monday at Pepsi Stadium.

"We were very anxious and excited to step outside for the first time this season," said assistant coach Monique Johnson. "As we play to our potential we will continue to improve each day."

In the first game, McQueen drove in the only Oakland run in the seventh inning with a single to centerfield scoring Leah DiCristofaro who reached on a hit by pitch. Brittany Doyle threw 6.0 innings, giving up six runs on 10 hits. The Paladins broke the game open in fourth inning after Nikki Legg grounded out to second base to drive in a run and Natalie Clemmons scored on a passed ball to make the score 4-0.

Furman added two more runs in the sixth inning with three hits with two outs for the final score of 6-1.

In the nightcap, the Golden Grizzlies jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the first inning capitalizing on two Furman errors as Erika Polidori scored on a DiCristofaro sacrifice fly. Furman took a 3-1 lead in the third inning after Lauren Collier led off with a home run to left field.

Oakland would close the gap to 3-2 in the sixth as Shannon Cleveland singled a ball up the middle to drive in DiCristofaro from second base, who reached on a fielder's choice after Polidori led the inning with a single. However, the Paladins would not let the Golden Grizzlies finish the comeback as Collier smashed a three-run home run to give the Paladins a 6-2 victory.

Katie Moy pitched a complete game 6.0 innings, giving up six runs, five earned, on 10 hits.

Oakland will be in action on Wednesday as they will face Maryland at Robert E. Taylor Stadium in College Park. First pitch is set to start at 3 p.m.

-OAKLAND SOFTBALL-