By Nicholas Huenefeld/Owens Sports Information
Battle Creek, MI---In the first game of the day for the Express, the team defeated Jackson C.C. 3-1 behind a complete game performance from Elizabeth Weber (Oak Harbor/Oak Harbor, Ohio) and a three RBI day from Lindsey Bandeen (Springfield/Holland, Ohio).
Weber went seven innings and allowed five hits, one run and one walk. She struck out six and retired 16 of the last 18 batters she faced. The only two that reached were on a walk and an error.
Jackson took a 1-0 lead in the top of the second on a solo home run by Taylor Espinoza, who led off in the inning.
Bandeen then tied the game for Owens with a two out RBI single up the middle to score Ashleigh Whitacre (Central Catholic/Toledo, Ohio).
Then, in the fifth, Roznoski led off the inning with a single to the pitcher. After Whitacre sacrificed her to second, Roznoski stole third (her 40th of the season). An infield single to third base by Haubert then put runners on first and third.
After Haubert stole second base, Bandeen came through once again with a single to left field to put Owens up 3-1.
Bandeen finished 3-for-3 with her three RBIs, while Roznoski went 2-for-3 with a run and a stolen base.
Weber moves to 3-0 on the season. Sarah Wilson took the loss for Jackson (18-27).
The Express will take on Kalamazoo Valley CC at 6 p.m. in the winner's bracket final. The winner would only have to win once more to advance to the NJCAA Div. II National Tournament, while the loser will have to fight through the loser's bracket to make the trip to nationals.