Hawkeyes Go Undefeated In Fall Season

Oct. 4, 2004

IOWA CITY – The University of Iowa softball team defeated Indian Hills C.C. and Kirkwood C.C. last weekend to end the fall season 10-0. Iowa once again had solid performances by pitchers Ali Arnold and Lisa Birocci.

In game one, Ali Arnold gave up only two hits and recorded 13 strikeouts in seven innings of work. The defense behind Arnold was solid all game, including centerfielder Emily Gerlick, who made a nice running catch in the fourth inning to rob an Indian Hills batter of an extra base hit.

Offensively in game one, Jenna Spratt went 2-3 and Kylie Murray went 2-4 with two runs scored, both in the fourth inning. Gerlick stole three bases in three attempts.

Birocci took the mound in game two and dominated Kirkwood, throwing a no-hitter in six innings of work. Birocci struck out five and also went 2-3 with a triple and 2 RBI.

Spratt continued the great plays in the outfield with a snow cone catch in left field to take away a hit from a Kirkwood batter.

Summer Downs wrapped up her first fall season with the Hawkeyes by going 2-4 with a triple and an RBI. Spratt was 2-3 with a stolen base and Natalie Johnson also went 2-3.

“This was a good conclusion to our fall season,” Head Coach Gayle Blevins said. “Our ability to score early and to keep steady offensive pressure on our opponents is defenitely better this season. Both Ali and Lisa threw strong games for us. The defense didn’t have a lot of opportunities, but played well. Our fall and winter training will be key to our success this spring. We are excited with what this team is capable of achieving.”

The Hawkeyes wrap up fall workouts with the Black and Gold World Series on October 7, 8 and 11. Iowa will open up the spring season on February 11 at the Stetson Invitational in Deland, FL.