Northern Colorado split its Sunday doubleheader against South Dakota on March 8 at Gloria Rodriguez Field, dropping the first game 7-4 before winning the second 4-2 to close out the Colorado Classic.
The games marked an important test for Northern Colorado, as the team looked to build momentum in non-conference play and provide experience for its roster. The split results highlighted both offensive power and pitching depth for the Bears.
In the opener, South Dakota took control early with a four-run second inning. Northern Colorado responded in the fourth when Amailee Morales hit a solo home run. The Bears narrowed the gap in the sixth after Morales reached base and Ella Gonzales followed with a two-run homer to center field. Despite adding another run in the seventh, Northern Colorado could not overcome South Dakota’s lead, finishing with a 7-4 loss. Gonzales led UNC offensively with two hits and three runs batted in.
The Bears rebounded in game two behind strong pitching performances from Sadie Kahl, who earned the win over five innings, and Grace Algrim, who recorded a save by pitching two scoreless frames. Offensively, Morales doubled to drive in a run during a two-run third inning and later scored on an error. After South Dakota tied it up in the fifth, Gonzales delivered a go-ahead double and Hayden Nelson reached on an error that brought home another run. Northern Colorado finished with six hits en route to their 4-2 victory.
The Rally Starters Club continues to support UNC Softball by providing enhanced training resources, advanced technology, and travel opportunities that help student-athletes compete at high levels both on and off the field.
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