STANFORD, Calif. – San Jose State softball struck first in the opening inning, but was held in check for the remainder of their 2021 season opener against the Stanford Cardinal, falling by a final of 9-2 on Friday evening at Smith Family Stadium.
The Spartans, in their first game under head coach Tammy Lohmann, played the Cardinal close for the first few frames, trailing just 2-1 heading into the fifth inning. However, Stanford plated seven runs in the final two innings to take control and pick up their first win of the young season.
Quick Hitters
- Karizma Bergesen plated the game's first run on a single through the left side of the infield that scored Jenessa Ullegue.
- Freshmen Malia Luna and Ashley Rico were each featured in the starting lineup for their collegiate debuts.
- Luna (1-for-3) plated the Spartans' second run of the game on a RBI single in the sixth inning.
- Caroline Bowman (0-1) was tabbed as the opening day starter and struck out four batters in 5.0 innings of work.
- Sophomore Jackie Rookaird made her Spartan debut by pitching the final inning.
- Stanford was led offensively by Taylor Gindlesperger (3-for-4, 2 RBI, 2 R) and Sydney Steele (3-for-4, 1 RBI, 1 R). Alana Vawter (1-0) picked up the win with nine strikeouts and two runs (one earned) surrendered.
