Feb. 15, 2008
Minneapolis, MN – The University of Iowa softball team opened the 2008 season with a 2-0 win over Western Illinois late Friday night in the Metrodome Classic. Iowa’s game didn’t start until 10 p.m. because the previous game between Northern Iowa and Arkansas went into extra innings.
Iowa scored the first run of the contest in the top of the fourth inning. Junior Colleen McGlaughlin singled and advanced to second on a throwing error by Western Illinois. Junior Callie Adreon then entered as a pinch-runner and slid safely underneath a tag at home plate off an RBI single by junior Erin Riemersma.
The Hawkeyes increased their lead in the top of the fifth off a double-steal. Freshman Chelsey Carmody roped a two-out single and advanced to third on a Westerwind error off the bat of sophomore Taylor Leichsenring. On the following pitch, Leichsenring attempted to steal second and the Western Illinois catcher fired a throw to second base. Leichsenring then forced a pickle in between first and second, allowing Carmody to cross home plate before being tagged out.
Carmody started her career in Black and Gold in style Friday night, finishing 3-4 with a double and a stolen base. McGlaughlin collected two hits.
Junior Brittany Weil threw a gem in her first appearance of the season. Weil threw a complete game two-hitter and struck out nine batters.
The Hawkeyes continue action in the Metrodome Classic Saturday when they face Northern Iowa at 5:30 p.m. and Tennessee Tech at 7:30 p.m.