Illinois opened their first game at home with a win against Saint Louis University, 5-0

softball pitcher
Photo taken during the game between the Saint Louis Billiken and the Illinois Fighting Illini at Eichelberger Field in Urbana, IL.

CHAMPAIGN — The Fighting Illini Softball won their first home game of the season against Saint Louis University by winning 5 to 0.   

Takeaways

Saint Louis: Saint Louis set the tone early and created trouble for when the Illini were at bat. Although Saint Louis was not able to get on the scoreboard, they were a threat to score as runners were on base for most of the game.

Illinois: After a slow start to the game, Illinois was able to find a way to get their players on base. Great fielding gave Illinois opportunities to run away with the lead and gain control of the game.

Key moment:

After a great hit over center field, freshman shortstop Ava Moore settled herself onto third base. Left Fielder Yazzy Avila stepped up to the plate at the bottom of the fourth. Without any hesitation, she sent the ball flying over center field and the barrier for a home run. That gave Illinois a three-run lead over Saint Louis heading into the 5th inning.

Key stat:

Illinois pitcher Karley Yergler only allowed three hits all game and had three strikeouts on the afternoon. 

Up Next

Illinois will continue their home games against Indiana State on Tuesday at Eichelberger Field at 5:00 p.m. Saint Louis will take on Purdue University on Saturday at 11:00 a.m.

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