Thrilling Doubleheader: Loyola Chicago Dominates UMass for Complete Sweep!

AMHERST, Mass. – Loyola Chicago’s softball team had an impressive day, sweeping a doubleheader against Massachusetts on April 18. They won the first game decisively with a score of 5-0 and edged out a 6-5 victory in the second game.

Head coach Alicia Abbott praised the team’s determination, saying, "I loved the fight we saw out of our team today." Key players like Peyton Pepkowski and Andie Broniewicz shined on the mound, while Alli Pawlowicz stepped up offensively, making significant contributions in both games.

Game 1: Loyola 5, Massachusetts 0

Loyola secured all five of their runs in a strong second inning. Riley Owens kicked things off with a single, allowing Skyler Croker and Sierra Sass to cross home plate. Shortly after, rookie Alli Pawlowicz hit a home run, bringing in Haley Wallace and Owens. The Ramblers’ defense held UMass scoreless, thanks to senior pitcher Peyton Pepkowski, who recorded a complete game with seven strikeouts and just three hits allowed.

Game 1 Highlights:

• Pawlowicz led the team with three RBIs and hit her sixth home run of the season.
• Owens added two hits, a double, and two RBIs to her name.
• Pepkowski’s performance marked her fourth game this season with seven or more strikeouts.

Game 2: Loyola 6, Massachusetts 5

Loyola came out swinging in the second game, building a 3-0 lead in the first inning with another home run from Pawlowicz. As they faced a late comeback attempt from UMass, the Ramblers scored three insurance runs in the final inning, fueled by a single from Wallace and a hit from Bella Crimaldi. Broniewicz pitched six strong innings, while Pepkowski stepped in for the final inning to earn her first save of the season.

Game 2 Highlights:

• Wallace extended her hitting streak to four games with two hits.
• Pawlowicz continued her strong performance, recording three RBIs for the second straight game.
• Broniewicz improved her season record to 7-9.

This doubleheader not only showcased Loyola’s talent but also their resilience under pressure. The Ramblers look to continue this momentum as they face Massachusetts again on April 19.

Interestingly, this performance aligns with the recent trend of collegiate softball becoming increasingly popular, with participation rates rising. The NCAA reported a 6% increase in female participation in collegiate sports since 2020, highlighting the growing interest in programs like Loyola’s.

As fans follow the Ramblers, it will be exciting to see how this season unfolds, especially with players like Pawlowicz making headlines for their impressive gameplay.

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