Bulldogs fall to Rams, 8-0, in season opener

SMITHFIELD, R.I. – The Bryant University softball team opened the season with a 8-0 loss to Fordham on Friday afternoon at the ECU Pirate Clash.

The Rams (5-1) opened the game with seven runs off three hits, including a three runs off Amy Van Hoven's double to left field. In the bottom of the first, senior Lauren Keast (Holliston, Mass.) was the first Bulldog (0-1) to reach base, after singling through the right side. The Black and Gold were unable to muster up a score in the opening inning, as they left two players on base.

After taking the mound late in the first, red-shirt sophomore Logan Paul (Shaker Heights, Ohio) remained in the circle, helping the Bulldogs hold the Rams scoreless through the next four innings, after striking out two batters in the contest.

The Bulldogs weren't able to get much going offensively, as junior Rachel Monroe (Southwick, Mass.) recorded the Bulldogs only other hit in the game in the bottom of the second.

Up seven with one out and a runner on third, Jordana Storm grounded out to second, scoring Shaw for the Rams' 8-0 edge in the top of the sixth. The Black and Gold went down in order in the bottom of the sixth, as Fordham was able to seal its fifth win of the season, 8-0.

Sophomore Colby Norris (Toano, Va.) recorded the loss on the mound. Fordham's Lauren Quense totaled her fourth win in the circle this season, allowing two hits, while striking out four batters.

Bryant continues play at the ECU Pirate Clash, taking on host East Carolina today at 4:30 p.m. Fans can follow along with live stats or watch live at bryantbulldogs.com.