Northern Colorado and Portland State each claimed a win during their Big Sky Conference doubleheader at Hillsboro Ballpark, according to an April 17 announcement from Northern Colorado. The Vikings took the first game with a 10–2 victory, while the Bears responded with an 8–0 shutout in the second matchup.
The results keep both teams in contention as they look ahead to the final game of the series. These games are important for conference standings and postseason hopes.
In game one, Portland State built an early lead by scoring four runs in the first inning through extra-base hits and timely runs batted in. Northern Colorado managed to get on the scoreboard when KK Christie singled, allowing Abby Gaona to score. Krista Francia hit her third home run of the season for UNC, but Portland State’s offense continued to produce, finishing with a decisive win behind pitcher Sherreigh Nakoa-Chung.
The Bears reversed fortunes in game two by shutting out Portland State. They scored early thanks to a Vikings error that allowed Christie to cross home plate. Amailee Morales drove in two more runs with a single before Baylie Kakallis added her first home run of the season in the fourth inning. Four additional runs came via walks as Northern Colorado capitalized on pitching struggles from their opponent. Anna Wilming pitched a complete-game one-hitter for UNC.
Looking ahead, Northern Colorado will aim for a series win when they face Portland State again, with first pitch scheduled for 2 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time.
The Rally Starters Club continues its support of UNC Softball by providing resources such as enhanced training tools and travel opportunities that benefit student-athletes and help maintain competitive performance levels.
