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Illinois Softball wins opening B1G series over Purdue

The Illini prevailed over the Boilermakers, taking two of three games this weekend in West Lafayette

By Christian Arkin

Illinois Softball opened its Big Ten schedule this past weekend, visiting Purdue for a game on Friday and a doubleheader on Saturday. Illinois entered the contest with a 19-9 out of conference record and was looking to capitalize on an 8-1 mark in its last nine games.

Game 1: Purdue 6, Illinois 3

Illinois starter Emily Oestreich struggled, allowing five hits and four earned runs in four innings pitched. The offense managed just six hits on the day, with two of the runs being driven in by pinch hitter Veronica Ruelius.

Game 2: Illinois 14, Purdue 6

Illinois’ offense woke up on Saturday, particularly in the ninth inning when the Illini drove in nine runs. Taylor Edwards worked 5.1 innings, allowing eight hits and six earned runs. Carly Thomas went 2-for-6 with three runs scored and two RBIs, while Maddi Doane went 2-for-5 with two RBIs.

Game 3: Illinois 10, Purdue 2 (6 innings)

The Illinois offense once again came alive, driving in 10 runs in this six-inning rout of Purdue. The Illini got four solid innings from starter Emily Oestreich, where she allowed five hits and two earned runs. Stephanie Abelo had a great afternoon, going 2-for-3, scoring two runs and recording three RBIs. Sam Acosta also had a good outing with two runs scored and one RBI.

Taylor Edwards, the junior from Arcola, suffered a facial injury this weekend, but seems to be in good spirits! We at the Champaign Room wish her a speedy recovery.