Batswomen Can't Avoid A Strong Assumption

The Harvard softball team broke out of a season-long slump last weekend by sweeping a doubleheader from Cornell. But the Crimson wasn't quite ready to make any Assumptions about a victory yesterday in Worcester, Mass.

Harvard came close to seizing one victory, but Assumption College came out the victors, sweeping both games, 3-2 and 6-1. And although Harvard (3-14 overall, 1-3 Ivy) lost by what may seem a signifigant margin, they put up a valiant effort.

"We played better than ever, defensively, in the first game," Captain Beth Reilly said. "We put everything we had into that first game."

The Crimson held the strong opposing squad to only three runs in the opener behind sophomore pitcher Julie Fromholz, but Harvard was unable to do what it needed to do most--score.

"We played well," Fromholz said. "We just couldn't get a hit."

Harvard's strong defensive play forced a 12-inning first game, which cost the Crimson dearly in the second game.

"With the extra innings of the first game, it was really hard getting back up for the second one," Reilly said.

In the nightcap, fatigue and the brutally cold weather took their toll on the Crimson, causing many costly errors. The absence of injured starters Nancy Sparrow and Christine did not help either.

Harvard held Assumption to a 1-1 tie in the second game, until a five-run inning assisted by Crimson miscues provided the final margin.

Don't Worry...

But the Harvard team did have its happier moments.

Freshman Katie Fitta made two spectacular catches, one in each game, which stunned the players and fans alike.

And Fromholz' pitching was excellent, despite having to hurl 19 innings worth of work.

"This loss was not as frustrating as others," Fromholz said, "because at least we played well."

THE NOTEBOOK: Harvard will travel to Storrs, Conn., today to take on Connecticut. After sweeping the twin bill from the Big Red, the Crimson will resume its Ivy schedule on April 28 against Yale.