The Elon University softball team, usually a good run-producing squad, was limited to just three runs against North Carolina A&T State University April 9 in Greensboro, N.C. But behind a dominant performance from junior starter Caitlin O’Shea and timely hits, the Phoenix held off the Aggies 3-0 in the two teams’ second game of a home-and-home series.
Elon beat the Aggies 7-3 eight days ago in the team’s other meeting.
The Phoenix struck first in the top of the second. With two on and two out, senior second baseman Lauren Oldham ripped a double to left center, scoring junior third baseman Ally Quintana and putting Elon up 1-0.
The Phoenix would then add its two remaining runs in the top of the third. With runners on second and third and one out, freshman designated player Emily Roper lined a single to right to stretch the Phoenix lead to 3-0.
It was all the support O’Shea (6-10) needed for her sixth win on the season. She threw a complete game shutout, surrendering just two hits and striking out two.
Sophomore pitcher Janika May (6-8) was saddled with the loss for the Aggies, going seven and giving up three runs on five hits, walking three and striking out five.
The Phoenix returns home after its recent road trip to take on conference foe Appalachian State University this weekend at Hunt Softball Park. The first game of a Saturday doubleheader is slated to begin at 1 p.m.