In the matinee of the doubleheader, solid pitching by both squads defined the contest. Laura Torgerson ‘'06 threw a complete game; however, defense proved to be the deciding factor.

"“[Laura] Torgerson pitched great,"” said Emily Hennig ’08, a 2005 All-MIAC selection in her first year. "“She got some clutch outs because she wasn’t afraid to let the defense behind her do the work."”

Errors in the fifth and seventh innings triggered two unearned runs, which was the difference in the 2-0 outcome. Torgerson only gave up five hits and four walks, and added five strikeouts. The Oles only collected two hits.

“"It'’s just a matter of getting the bats going,”" Hennig said. “"I definitely think that we will generate offense soon enough because the atmosphere in the [Rosemount] Dome was not what we were used to by any means."”

In the nightcap, the Beavers were off to a fast start, scoring two runs off three hits in the bottom of the first. Buena Vista added six in the third, off six hits and one error, and two in the fourth. The game concluded after five, as the Beavers opened up a 10-run lead.

The Oles managed to advance runners into scoring position in the second, third and fifth, but could not deliver clutch hitting in order to remain competitive.

Despite their early lack of offensive production, Hennig remains optimistic.

“"Though we were swept and it appears lopsided, the games were much closer than the scores indicate,"” Hennig said. "“With the exception of an inning here and there, we remained competitive.”"

On the hill, pitcher Bekki Hagen '‘06 suffered the loss, in four innings pitched. Hagen allowed six earned runs on 11 hits.

The Oles (0-2) will travel to Tuscon, Ariz., over Spring Break, where they will face three different teams. St. Olaf will play eight games over a five-day span.

“"We are by all means looking forward to Spring Break,"” Hennig said. “"It will give us a great opportunity to relax and play softball, but the key is going to be to get ready for outdoor play when we return."”

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