NEW ROCHELLE, NY – The Iona College softball team saw its cruising offense stifled at Donald E. Walsh Field on Wednesday afternoon.  Limiting the Maroon & Gold to just one hit in their first game in New Rochelle, the Army Black Knights took down the Gaels home-opener, 3-0.

Sophomore Alana Evans went seven innings in the circle for Iona, allowing three runs on six hits and four walks.  Her record now stands at 5-4 this season despite striking out a season-high nine Army batters. 

Sophomore Renee Poirier went six innings for the Black Knights, allowing one hits and dishing out two free passes.  The only Gael hit came in the second inning courtesy of a bunt laid down by senior shortstop Katie Newton.  Freshman Macey Newbary came in the seventh inning to earn the save; she retired the side in order, recording one strike out.

Army got its first run in the fifth inning after sophomore designated player Ashley Yoo earned a two-out walk.    Freshman Lacey Swafford stepped into the box and knocked at 1-1 pitch to deep right center, scoring the Black Knights game-winning run.  Two more runs were added on in the fifth inning courtesy of a pinch hit single to centerfield by freshman Katie Ontiveros.

Freshman right fielder Marisa Gergel and junior catcher Tori Danner both walked for Iona.  All together the Gaels left their three baserunners on base while the Black Knights stranded seven.

The Maroon & Gold return to action this weekend on Saturday, Apr. 1 at noon for the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference opener against the Niagara Purple Eagles.