March 19, 2015
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -
By Miranda, GoPSUsports.com Student Staff Writer
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - After two months on the road, the Penn State's softball team returned to Happy Valley to host the University of Pittsburgh on Wednesday notching a 3-1 victory.
Despite the cold, Beard Field was buzzing with excitement for opening day and the team came out determined to play its best for the home crowd.
"Between the weather conditions, first time playing at home, and facing Pitt which is an in-state rival, there were a lot of emotions in this game," said head coach Amanda Lehotak. "I think there was great softball on both ends and I'm proud of the team for pulling out with the win."
The Lions were able to take the toughness they created on the road back to Happy Valley for Wednesday's home opener to show off all the hard work the team has encountered since the start of the season.
"It was great being able to play here after being on the road for a long stretch," said coach Lehotak. "We're starting a new philosophy this year were we set expectations of not losing at home anymore."
One player that specifically showed her toughness was outfielder Macy Jones. She was able to lead the charge by dominating the game both at bat and in left field.
With a slow start to the game, Jones battled at the plate and hit a home run to the center field to provide Penn State two RBIs at the bottom of the third.
"I was really excited to play at home for the first time all season and whenever we're home, we want to put on a good show," said Macy Jones. "Sometimes I get too excited and lose focus but tonight I was able to really relax which allowed me to concentrate on my game more."
Jones also made five outs in the outfield which kept Pitt off the scoreboard multiple times throughout the game.
"It was funny because Macy had a really tough day at practice when dealing with fly balls and for her to come out strong tonight shows a lot about how hard she's willing to work," said coach Lehotak.
Alongside Jones, Marlaina Laubachpitched all seven innings for the blue and white.Laubach is a sophomore from Northampton, PA and ended the game strong with six strikeouts at the mound and zero errors.
Similar to Jones, Laubach was motivated for the first home game of the season.
"I think there is a notable difference when playing home," said Laubach. "It's so nice being able to say we're home and be able to play in front of all our families and friends," said Laubach. "This being the home opener we really wanted to showcase what we've been working on while on the road."
Rallying from the victory over Pittsburgh, the Nittany Lions will stay focused as they continue on with the season. Next up, the Lions will enter the Big Ten season, hosting Northwestern in a three-game series over the weekend.
"Tonight's win set the bar for us and with Northwestern being a such a good team I think that will motivate us even more to perform our best over the weekend," said Jones.