CHAMPAIGN — The Fighting Illini softball team (18-20) protected its home field with another win against Valparaiso University on Wednesday. The Illini beat the Beacons 5-1, with all of the team’s runs being scored in the second inning.
Takeaways
Valparaiso: Although Valparaiso did not come away with the win, they were the better fielding team compared to Illinois. The Beacons did not let the Illini get another run after the second inning, getting off the field quickly to get back in the game. It just goes to show that one bad half of an inning is all it takes to lose a game.
Illinois: Illinois rode the momentum after its last win by setting the tone early. They keptValparaiso out of the game. Adisyn Carol added another home run to her season, and Eileen Donahue hit a grand slam to clinch the win.
Key moment
After giving up a run in the second inning, Illinois responded with a grand slam by Eileen Donahue. This was the 55th grand slam in program history. Right after, Adisyn Carol hit a home run, giving her seven home runs on the season.
Key Stat
Illinois pitcher Karley Yergler helped Illinois get the win down the stretch of the game with five strikeouts. She only allowed Valparaiso to get three hits all game.
Up Next
The Illini will travel to Indiana for a weekend series against the Purdue Boilermakers starting on Friday at 4 P.M.