Fairfield, CT- The Iona College softball team split a doubleheader with the Pioneers of Sacred Heart University today, the Gaels fell to the host 3-1 in game one, but took game 2 3-0.

In game one the Gaels were held to three hits by the Pioneers hurler Megan Spehar. The Gaels put the first run up on the board in the first inning with a solo shot by sophomore 1B Val Laschen (1-for-3, 1 run, 1 RBI) to left field. A three run fifth inning would give the Pioneers a 3-1 lead they would hang onto for the win.

The Gaels built their three run lead in the second game with single runs in the first, fifth and sixth innings. Junior C Laura Stott(1-for-2, 1 RBI) had an RBI single in the first, freshman SS Courtney Christie (1-for-4, 1RBI) ripped an RBI double in the fifth and then sophomore RF Angie Ortiz(1-for-3, 1 run, 1 RBI) deposited a homerun to lead off the sixth inning to account for all the offense.

Junior RHP Becky Riccitelli pitched a gem for the Gaels shutting out the Pioneers in seven innings pitched. She allowed only four hits, and commanded an astounding 13 strikeouts. At one point, she struck out five in a row and eight out of eleven batters. The win brings Riccitelli's record to (6-8) and her ERA to 3.41.

The Gaels are back in action tomorrow (Apr. 25) at Pinebrook Field in a doubleheader against the Pirates of Seton Hall beginning at 3:00 pm.