NEWTON, Mass. – The Norwich University softball team split a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) doubleheader against Lasell College Sunday afternoon at Taylor Field. Norwich captured the opening game, 13-6, before falling by an 8-6 score in the nightcap. Norwich moves to 2-2 in conference play (2-10 overall), while Lasell goes to 2-12 overall and an identical 2-2 record in GNAC play.

Norwich used a six-run third inning to jump out to an 8-0 lead in the opener. Freshman OF Erin Vien started the frame's scoring with a RBI single into right center field to score sophomore INF Noel Byers.  Senior OF Seana Ellsworth promptly followed with a three-run homerun to put the Cadets on top by six. Freshman INF Abby Belcher smacked a RBI double to left and senior C Marley Balasco walked to bring in the final run of the inning for NU.

Ellsworth powered the Cadet offense in game one, going 3-for-5 with two homeruns and five RBIs.

Michelle Torres went 2-for-4 in the leading game for the Lasers, with one double, two runs scored, and one RBI. 

Kelsey Buker picked up the win for NU in the pitcher's circle as she allowed six hits and four runs (three earned) over 3.1 innings, striking out five and walking four.

Kirsten Mammola was charged with the loss for Lasell after striking out four in 5.1 total innings. 

Kelly Silvia went 3-for-3 with a triple, two RBIs and a run scored as Lasell overcame a 3-0 deficit to snatch an 8-6 decision in the second contest. Rachelle Haas added a three-run game-tying homer in the fifth inning for LC.

Buker went 2-for-4 for the Cadets with an RBI and a run scored, while freshman 1B Briana Day and Byers each added a homerun. Belcher pitched in with two runs scored. 

Samantha Whynot struck out three for Lasell en route to the complete game victory on the mound.  Whynot yielded six runs and five earned runs in the win.

Freshman P Kaylie Miller took the loss for Norwich in six innings, retiring two batters on strikes and giving up seven hits and five earned runs.  

The Cadets are off until Friday, Apr. 1, when they travel to take on Pine Manor in a conference twinbill. The first game is scheduled for 3 p.m.