SURPRISE, Ariz. – The Dickinson State University (DSU) softball team dropped a pair of games to Ottawa University – Arizona (OUAZ) to end their Arizona spring-break trip on Monday afternoon. The Blue Hawks fell 10-2 in game one and 8-0 in game two. With the losses, the Blue Hawks move to 8-14 on the year.

Game One: Dickinson State University 2, Ottawa University – Arizona 10 - 5 innings

The Spirit got off to a quick start during the first inning as they took an early 3-0 lead. DSU chopped off a run in the top of the second inning after an Emma Woodworth single to score Madison Stephens off a throwing error by OUAZ's shortstop.

After a scoreless third inning by both teams, the Spirit tagged on three more runs for the 6-1 lead. Rhea Paiva got things started with a lead-off single to the pitcher in the top of the fifth inning. Paiva would advance to third after a single by Ari Martinez on the next at-bat. The Blue Hawks tagged on another run after a sacrifice fly by Hailey Enriquez to score Paiva. However, the Blue Hawks ended the inning – leaving two in scoring position. During the bottom of the fifth inning, the Spirit offense continued to stay hot at the plate as they put up a four-run inning to come away with the 10-2 win.

From the Box Score –

Of the team's six hits in the loss, Ari Martinez led the team going 2-3. Teammates Rhea Paiva, Hailey Enriquez, Dallis Mitchell, and Emma Woodworth connected for the final four hits in the game.

From the mound, Dallis Mitchell took the loss as she let up nine runs (6ER) off nine hits in 4.1 innings pitched. Madeline Peralta closed out the game in the final inning and let up one run (1ER) in two batters faced.

Game Two: Dickinson State University 0, Ottawa University – Arizona 8

In the second game of the day, OUAZ got out to a quick 4-0 lead after the first two innings of action. The Spirit continued their scoring after a four-run, four-hit, fifth inning to claim game two, 8-0.

From the Box Score –

The lone hit of the game for the Blue Hawks was off the bat of Gianna Monteleone in the fourth inning, while teammates Ari Martinez and Cassidy Venner drew walks in the loss.

From the mound, Ari Martinez suffered the loss as she let up eight runs – with three being earned – in 23 batters faced.

Up Next –

The Blue Hawks shift their focus as they take on Valley City State University to open NSAA Conference action. The Blue Hawks take on the Vikings on March 26-27 in Valley City.