FAIRMONT, W.Va. — Fairmont State (20-6, 10-0 MEC) had a strong showing in a doubleheader against Wheeling University (7-23, 2-8 MEC) at Duvall-Rosier Field on Friday, winning the first game decisively 10–2 and edging out a close 2–1 victory in the second game.
Game 1: Fairmont State 10, Wheeling, 2 (6 Inn.)
In game one, Wheeling took the early lead in the opening frame with a two-run producing double to center field. However, in the bottom half,
Bella Hess walked and later scored on a throwing error, while
Avery Townsend scored on a sacrifice fly by
Breonna Marietta, tying the game at 2–2 after the first inning.
The Falcons took control in the second inning when
Jaylin McGill hit a solo home run to center field, giving Fairmont State a 3–2 lead. They extended their lead in the third inning as Hess walked and scored on a groundout by Marietta, followed by
Alexa Foresha's two-run homer to center field. By the end of the third, Fairmont State led 6–2.
The Falcons added three more runs in the fourth inning, with
Sydney Emanuel scoring on a fielder's choice, and Hess and Townsend each scoring on a single by
Emma Paul, bringing the score to 9–2. Fairmont State added one more run in the sixth inning when
Gabby Bibb pinch ran and scored on a single by
Kensy Thomas, finalizing the game at 10–2.
Micah Wilson started for Fairmont State, pitching 1 2/3 innings, allowing two earned runs on three hits and one walk while striking out one.
Phoebe Rusnak pitched 2 2/3 innings with one hit, two walks, and one strikeout.
Liz Alsop closed the game with 1 2/3 innings of hitless relief, striking out one and not allowing any walks.
Game 2: Fairmont State 2, Wheeling 1
In game two, Wheeling took an early lead in the fourth inning when Madison Kay doubled to left field, driving in Maria Clark, making the score 1–0 in favor of the Cardinals.
Fairmont State responded in the fifth inning with
Bella Hess singling to shortstop and stealing second.
Avery Townsend followed with a bunt single, advancing Hess to third. Townsend then stole second, setting the stage for
Emma Paul, who reached on a fielder's choice, allowing Townsend to score. The inning ended with the game tied at 1–1.
In the seventh inning,
Emma Paul broke the tie with a solo home run to center field, leading Fairmont State to a walk-off victory at 2-1.
Delaney Haller delivered a commanding performance in the circle, pitching a complete game with 7 innings of work, allowing only 5 hits and one earned run while striking out 5 batters.
Bella Hess recorded three hits and stole three bases in the first game, and adding three hits and two stolen bases in the second game.
Avery Townsend contributed two hits, a run, and two stolen bases in game two.
Emma Paul added a home run and two RBIs across the doubleheader.
Fairmont State will host West Liberty on Saturday, April 4 from Duvall-Rosier Field. Game one is set to start at 12:00 p.m.
