ANDERSON, S.C. - Anderson University softball (31-5, 14-2 SAC) improved to 19-1 at home with the doubleheader sweep over South Atlantic Conference opponent Catawba (4-26, 0-16 SAC) winning game one, 11-0 (5), and winning game two, 5-3 , which was highlighted by sophomore Laken Maxwell breaking AU's All-Time Season strikeout record on Monday afternoon at the AU Softball Complex.
"Two really good wins against a scrappy Catawba team who's coached by two first class coaches, said head coach Tommy Hewitt. "I am very proud of Laken for breaking AU season strikeout record."
"Now we move our focus on what's ahead this coming Saturday," added Hewitt.
Anderson busted open game one with an eight-run second inning. Freshman Maddie Carpenter, sophomore Hannah Whitaker and senior Kayson Boatner each hit a home run in the inning with senior Gracie Williams hitting a double to help produce eight runs.
The Trojans added two runs in the third and a solo run in the fourth inning to set the final score at, 11-0. Boatner and Williams finished the game with four and three RBI, respectively while freshman Maggie Nauk picked up her first hit and first career RBI.
Senior Harlie Duncan (13-2) earned the victory after giving up just one hit and striking out two in three complete innings of work. Freshman Trinity Queen pitched the final two innings, giving up two hits while keeping the shutout intact.
Catawba jumped out to a 1-0 lead after the first half inning of play. The Trojans were able to tie the game at one apiece after Carpenter's double scored Charter who reached on a walk. The Lady Indians struck again in the second inning driving its second home run over the fence to take a, 2-1, lead.
The Lady Indians were able to hold onto the lead through the third inning. Anderson rallied in the bottom of the fourth inning, using senior Jessica Neadow's three-run home run to take a, 4-2 lead. AU added its final run in the bottom of the sixth with Charter's single up the middle scoring Williams who hit her third double of the afternoon.
Catawba was able to add a run in the top half of the seventh, but Maxwell was able to shut down the threat with her 13th strikeout of the game.
Maxwell (17-3) pitched seven innings, giving up just three hits while striking out 13. The native of Bowdon, Ga. Became AU's All-Time Season strikeout leader (185) on her 12th strikeout of the game. Maxwell is tied for first for total wins in the SAC, second in ERA and second in strikeouts.
Anderson returns to action on when it travels to SAC opponent Carson-Newman. First-pitch is slated for 1pm.
