VALPARAISO, Ind. – The Belmont University Softball team (28–9, 15–3 MVC) opened its weekend series against Valparaiso with a 7–0 shutout victory Friday afternoon. The win marked Belmont's 14th shutout of the season and Maya Johnson's 11th, as the pitcher improved to 20–1 on the year.
VS Valparaiso – Game 1 (7–0)
Belmont scored early in the top of the first. Rylee Spindler reached third base before scoring on a Valparaiso throwing error, giving the Bruins an early 1–0 lead.
The Bruins extended their advantage in the sixth inning with a four-run frame. Tallulah Eichholz scored on a wild pitch before Lydia Vanderwoude singled through the right side to bring home Emily Konz. Nicole Hughes followed with a sacrifice fly to score Ella Bertucci, and Madison Dolecki added an RBI double to push the lead to 5–0.
Belmont added two more runs in the seventh when Spindler delivered a two-RBI double up the middle, scoring Bertucci and Konz to seal the 7–0 victory.
In the circle, Maya Johnson tossed a complete-game. With just one-hitter, she struke out 11 batters without issuing a walk across seven innings.
Defensively, Belmont received strong performances across the field, including 10 putouts from Brenna Blume, six from Madison Dolecki, and five from Maddy Balsiger.
On the bases, the Bruins also stayed aggressive with stolen bases from Emily Konz, Ella Bertucci, and Lizzie Ozim.
Up Next
Belmont continues the series against Valparaiso with a Saturday doubleheader beginning at 12 p.m. CT. The Bruins look to secure their sixth MVC series win.
Live stats will be available at gobelmontbruins.com.
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