URBANA, Ill. – The Illinois softball team battled in a 5-0 setback in its Big Ten Conference series opener against No. 19 Minnesota on Friday (April 5) night at Eichelberger Field.
"Tough loss today to a strong Minnesota team," said head coach Tyra Perry. "We are looking forward to a new opportunity to take the series on Saturday."
The Gophers (26-9, 7-0 B1G) started off night with a three-run home run in the opening frame, before adding to their lead with a solo shot in the fourth for the 4-0 advantage.
Back-to-back hits from senior Kiana Sherlund and redshirt-senior Carly Thomas and a walk issued to classmate Annie Fleming loaded the bases in the sixth, but the Illini (23-10, 3-4 B1G) could not capitalize as UM added an unearned insurance run in the top of the seventh and went on for the 5-0 win.
Senior Taylor Edwards (2-4) took the loss after allowing four runs – only three earned – on four hits and three walks and struck out one in 3.2 innings. Junior Akilah Mouzon threw three solid innings of relief, giving up just one unearned run on three hits and three walks and struck out one, while senior Emily Oestreich entered in the seventh and secured the final out of the inning.
The Illini totaled four hits on the night, with Sherlund, Thomas, sophomore Bella Loya and freshman Kailee Powell collecting knocks.
Next Up
With rain forecasted for Sunday, the Illini and the No. 19/12/12 Gophers will now play a doubleheader on Saturday (April 6) beginning at 1 p.m. CT. Saturday is Mom's Day at Eichelberger Field, with Illini Softball coffee mugs for the first 150 moms in attendance. Saturday will also serve as Kids Day, with the post-game youth clinic taking place following the second game.
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