Softball In Another Elimination Game Against TCNJ
By Ryan Gaydos
@KUTowerSports
The Kean University softball team staved off elimination Friday and will have to do it again Saturday as the Cougars return to Rowan University to take on The College of New Jersey.
Kean eliminated William Paterson Friday afternoon by the score of 5-1 after another clutch performance from Courtney Yard and a good offensive showing from outfielder Sandra Binkiewicz and catcher Jill Martin. The road is only going to get rockier from here.
The Lions are coming off a loss against second-seeded Montclair State Friday 4-2. The Lions defeated Richard Stockton College 4-0 Tuesday to help keep its season alive.
Kean is coming into this game against TCNJ having been swept by the Lions this season all the way back on April 6; 2-1, 4-2. In the game that Yard started, she allowed the two runs but both of them were unearned. Since then, she has transformed into a different pitcher and it will almost be like the Lions have not faced her at all this season.
The Cougars have to watch out for two all-conference nominations in third baseman Kelly Hommen and outfielder Michelle Casale. Both players need to be carefully pitched against and Yard will have to be aware of both of those particular Lions in the batting order Saturday.
It will be one of the most competitive games to watch this season. Both teams have similar record and both teams are neck and neck in the NCAA College Softball Regional Rankings with the Lions in fifth and the Cougars in sixth.
If Kean pulls out the victory, it may not be the best thing as they face the loser between Rowan and Montclair State, two of the top teams in the nation let alone with conference.