WINONA, Minn. - If there's one word to describe the Saint Mary's softball team (31-3), it's 'wow.' On Saturday afternoon, they fought hard in a tight game one against Saint Benedict (17-13), pulling out a 1-0 win, then rallied for an impressive 4-3 comeback in game two to complete the conference sweep and extend their winning streak to 21 — all on a memorable Senior Day.

GAME ONE

Makayla Steffes pitched a complete-game shutout allowing only four hits, while striking out six batters. 

The game was decided in the first inning when the Cardinals scored the only run of the game by Peyton Berg on a bases-loaded walk. Saint Benedict also held the Cardinals to just four hits but was unable to capitalize offensively, leaving six runners on base throughout the game.

The remainder of the game turned into a defensive showdown, with the Cardinals preserving their one-run advantage.

GAME TWO

Allison Ciero was a standout performer for the Cardinals, on her special senior day, collecting three hits in four at-bats and stealing two bases. 

Kenzie Gatz made a significant impact on the mound, pitching eight innings and allowing three earned runs on 10 hits while striking out four batters.

Saint Benedict opened the game with a strong first inning, scoring three runs. Spoiler alert, their only three of the game. The Cardinals struggled to respond in the bottom half, with Steffes managing a walk and a stolen base, but the team was unable to capitalize.

Finally in the fifth inning, the Cardinals got on the scoreboard. 

Steffes hit a double and was driven home by Megan McGinnis's double, narrowing the gap to 3-1. 

This was followed by a significant sixth inning where the Cardinals collected two runs. Olivia Poulin scored on a perfect bunt single by Samyah Brown, and Grace Leis later scored on a fielder's choice, tying the game at 3-3.

Going into an extra inning, the teams played the international runner rule placing Abbie Stigler at second. In the first bat of the extra inning, Alexandra Gerber hit a beautiful single to center field, allowing Stigler to score to secure the win!

You just had to be there!

The Cardinals maintained their composure and seized key opportunities to secure the conference victory over the Bennies.

The Cardinals will savor the victory before gearing up to return to action at home on Tuesday, April 22nd, when they host Macalester at 3:30 p.m.