WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. – The Salem University Tigers softball team earned a split in a Saturday afternoon doubleheader against West Liberty, rebounding from a narrow shutout in the opener to claim a gritty victory in the nightcap.
Game 1: West Liberty 1, Salem 0
The afternoon began with a classic pitcher's duel where Salem fell just short in a 1-0 heartbreaker. Franchesca Alvaro turned in a stellar performance in the circle, tossing a complete game and allowing only one run on four hits while striking out six.
The game's only run materialized in the third inning when West Liberty's Sara Simon doubled and later crossed the plate on a sacrifice fly. Despite the loss, the Tigers' defense remained sharp, and Alvaro kept the Hilltoppers off balance for the duration of the contest.
Salem's offense managed three hits on the day, with Ali Jacobs, Brooke Wise, and Alyssa Schultz each reaching safely. However, the Tigers were unable to string together the necessary rally to overcome the deficit.
Game 2: Salem 2, West Liberty 1
The Tigers showed great resilience in the second game, capitalizing on opportunities to secure a 2-1 win. Kendall Lemley was the story of the game, pitching seven strong innings and allowing just one run on five hits to earn the victory.
Salem took control in the second inning. After Ali Shrieve walked and Layla McClung doubled, both runners reached home when Alyssa Schultz put the ball in play, leading to a West Liberty error.
The 2-0 cushion was nearly enough for Lemley to cruise, though West Liberty managed to cut the lead in half in the fourth inning. Lemley remained composed, retiring the side in the seventh to ensure the Tigers headed home with a win.
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Kendall Lemley: 7.0 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 4 SO
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Layla McClung: 1-for-3, 2B, R.
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Key Sequence: A two-run second inning provided the margin of victory
