OSHKOSH, Wis. – The UW-River Falls softball team faced a top-ranked test on Sunday, April 26, dropping both games of a doubleheader to No. 16-ranked UW-Oshkosh, 0-4 & 0-2. Despite the end results, the Falcon squad showed up against one of the top teams in the nation, keeping both contests close and competitive throughout the afternoon.
Game 1: UW-Oshkosh 4, UWRF 0
The Falcons were limited offensively but were able to find some success at the plate, finishing with three hits in the opener. Caitlyn Kressel led group all the way with a perfect 3-for-3 performance, accounting for all of River Falls' hits. Hailey Kincaid got the start, pitching 2.2 innings before relief came in.
UW-Oshkosh scored early, plating one run in the first and adding three more in the second to build a 4-0 lead. From there, the Falcons settled in defensively and at the mound. Entering in relief, Lucy Knutson tossed 3.1 innings of shutout softball with five strikeouts to keep the Titans off the board the rest of the way.
Game 2: UW-Oshkosh 2, UWRF 0
The second game turned into a pitcher's duel with the Falcons holding the Titans scoreless through the first four innings. UW-Oshkosh broke through in the fifth with two runs, proving to be the difference for the Titans.
Brooklyn VanGruensven delivered a solid start, giving up just two runs over 4.1 innings, while Lucy Knutson once again provided relief to close out the game for the Falcons.
River Falls was held hitless through the second game. The lineup saw four walks and worked to apply pressure on the basepath but was unable to plate anyone throughout the afternoon.
The Falcons return to Faye Perkins Stadium mid-week to face off against the UW-La Crosse Eagles as WIAC play continues Wednesday, April 29 at home.
