BYU Crushes UVSC in First Home Exhibition Game

PROVO -- The BYU softball team gave up one run in the first inning, but went on to rout UVSC 17-1 at Gail Miller Field. On the second pitch of the game, UVSC shortstop Shayanne Durrant hit a home run giving the Wolverine's an early advantage.

The home run did not seem to rattle the Cougars.

"We didn't get nervous," sophomore catcher Lauren Watson said. "It was definitely a shock, but we knew our hitters had the capabilities to bring us back."

The Cougars scored six runs on six hits in the first inning. Watson scored BYU's first run off a single by junior outfielder Belinda Osborn.

BYU scored next on a triple by senior outfielder Brooke Cadiente bringing in Osborn. BYU's third run came when Cadiente scored on a throwing error by UVSC. Junior shortstop Kate Walker knocked in two more runs on a double. The Cougars final run of the inning came when sophomore third baseman Milli Jones singled to short scoring Walker.

After the first inning, the Wolverines did not make any more serious threats to score.

"We played loose and relaxed," Cadiente said.

Eakin said he was pleased with how his team played.

"We're a young team," Eakin said. "We didn't miss a beat even without our two-time All-American Oli Keohohou. Keohohou was away trying out for the U.S. National team.

"We maintained out intensity. Even with two outs and no one on, we were still able to generate runs," Eakin said.

Although Eakin emphasized the Cougars still have a lot of room for improvement.

Sophomore Niki Anderson was the winning pitcher. Anderson pitched three innings giving up only one run and three hits, while striking out two.

Kristy Miller picked up the loss for the Wolverines. Miller pitched three innings giving up 10 runs and 11 hits.

Freshman outfielder Ianeta Lei finished the game 3 for 5 with two doubles and a triple. Lei also scored three runs and recorded two RBI.

Jones also played well for the Cougars. She was 3 for 3 with one run and two RBI.

The Cougars play three games this weekend against SUU, USU and Utah.

Their next home game is Oct. 2 against Salt Lake Community College.