WINONA, Minn. - The Saint Mary's fastpitch softball team (23-3) continues to show they're a force to be reckoned with! In their final non-conference matchup of the season, the Cardinals hosted UW-La Crosse (15-11) and came away with another impressive sweep. 

They edged out the Eagles 6-5 in game one with a thrilling walk-off win, then followed it up with a commanding 10-3 victory in game two.

GAME ONE

Peyton Berg was a key offensive player with two hits, including a double, and two RBIs in her three at-bats. She delivered the game-winning RBI, sealing the Cardinals victory in game one with a clutch walk-off hit.

Abbie Stigler got the team going early and recorded two hits, two RBIs, and a big home run, contributing one run to the team's total. 

Makayla Steffes got things rolling with a leadoff walk and moved to third after a single from Megan McGinnis. The duo pulled off a pair of steals to get into scoring position. Berg then lifted a sac fly to bring Steffes in, and a wild pitch let McGinnis score, putting the Cardinals up 2-0 early.

In the second inning, UW-La Crosse responded with a three-run homer swinging the lead in their favor at 3-2. However, the Cardinals defense held firm in the third inning, allowing no hits from the Eagles

UW-La Crosse extended their lead to 5-2 with two runs, but the Cardinals quickly answered. Allison Ciero walked and Stigler followed with the two-run homer to center field, narrowing the gap to 5-4.

The Cardinals continued to chip away in the fifth. After McGinnis singled and advanced with the help of pinch runner Brianna Nusbaum, Heather Nordlund singled to drive in a run, tying the game at 5-5.

In the seventh inning, Steffes singled and advanced to second on McGinnis's ground out. Berg then doubled to center field, bringing Steffes home and securing the win for the Cardinals in the final inning. 

They just keep getting more thrilling to watch.

GAME TWO

Makayla Steffes led the Saint Mary's softball team with a standout performance, scoring four runs, driving in three RBIs, and hitting one home run. She also pitched an inning without allowing a hit or a walk. 

Kenzie Gatz excelled both at bat and on the mound, pitching six innings with eight strikeouts and giving up three earned runs, while also hitting two doubles.

The Cardinals came out swinging in the first inning, putting up three quick runs to set the tone. Steffes kicked things off with a walk, followed by a single from McGinnis. Berg stepped up and ripped a double to center, bringing home both Steffes and McGinnis. Ciero kept the momentum going with a single to right that scored Karli Zetah, giving Saint Mary's an early 3-0 advantage.

In the second inning, the Cardinals continued to build their lead. After Gatz and Steffes singles put runners on base, McGinnis singled to left, advancing the runners. Zoe Fink then delivered a two-RBI single in her second at bat of the day, bringing home McGinnis and Steffes. This extended the Cardinals lead to 5-0 at the end of the second inning.

The Cardinals kept the energy going in the fourth. Gatz ripped a double and gave way to pinch runner Herrera, who didn't have to wait long—Steffes stepped up and crushed a two-run shot to left, stretching the lead to 7-0.

The Eagles managed to score all three of their runs in the sixth inning, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Cardinals strong start. 

To close out the game, Alexandra Gerber scored on an error, and a series of wild pitches allowed Leis and Steffes to score, solidifying the game at 10-3.

It was a picture-perfect day for softball, and the Cardinals kept the energy high as they continued their momentum on home turf. They'll be back at it this Saturday, hosting Bethel at 1:00 p.m.

Saturday's game will also feature a special celebration as the 2000 National Championship team returns to campus. Saint Mary's would love to see the community come out and celebrate this memorable moment with us!