Northwest University’s softball team opened its 2016 season today splitting their games with Aquinas College (Grand Rapids, Mich.) and Madonna University. The Eagles defeated Aquinas 2-1 in the first game and lost 10-4 to Madonna in the second contest.

No statistics available for the Aquinas game at this time.

In the second game, Madonna University of Livonia, Michigan scored 10 runs on a 16-hit attack as they downed the Eagles 10-4 under sunny skies and 84 degree temperatures. The Crusaders big innings came in a four-run second inning and a five-run fifth inning to help lift them to the victory.

Northwest U (1-1) came up with two runs in the second and fourth innings and were led by DH Desiree Mendola who went one-for-three, scoring once and earning one RBI for the game. Sophomore pitcher, Hannah Yelas took the loss and went five innings giving up 10 runs on 15 hits. The NU defense was solid with just one error for the day. Erin Combs earned the win for Madonna going the distance, giving up four runs on six Northwest U hits, three strikeouts and one walk.

Northwest U will continue play on Saturday with two more games, one with Siena Heights University followed by a match-up with Park University.