Union, N.J. (5/8/25) – The Kean University softball team fought hard to stay in the New Jersey Athletic Conference Tournament, securing a dramatic 6-2 victory over Montclair State University in extra innings on Thursday night.
How It Unfolded:
The Cougars wasted no time, jumping to a 2-0 lead in the first inning. Gina Mahlik doubled, bringing in Brianna Sciulli, who had walked. Moments later, Samantha Raymond added a single, pushing their lead further.
Montclair State (24-17) answered quickly. Thanks to a couple of Kean errors, Sophia Alonso raced home, cutting the deficit to 2-1.
For several innings, the score held until the sixth. With two outs, Carly Iannone hit a sharp grounder to second. Though Kiley Allen stopped it, Alonso, who had already reached second, sprinted home, tying the game 2-2.
The ninth inning was key. Veteran Andee Perseponko drew a crucial walk. After stealing second, she scored the winning run when Mahlik hit her second double of the night. Maya Thompson then hit a powerful homer to center, pushing Kean ahead 5-2. The rally continued: Raymond walked, and Lauren Paulk singled, putting more pressure on the Red Hawks. Kylie Petak capped the scoring with a single, bringing in another run.
Nikki Lusnia, who came in during the sixth inning, sealed the win by retiring the side with three pop-ups in the bottom of the ninth.
Key Stats:
- Mahlik finished the game with two doubles and two RBIs, going 2-for-4.
- Lusnia recorded a solid performance, tossing four scoreless innings with two strikeouts and allowing just three hits.
What’s Next:
Kean will face either Rowan or Ramapo in another elimination match at Rowan on Saturday at noon.
This win adds momentum to the Cougars’ season. As the tournament heats up, the pressure will only increase—but the team’s resilience is clear. Let’s see if they can carry this energy forward!
For more on athletic performances and updates, check out this NCAA link.
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