UAAP: DLSU Softbelles fall to NU in tournament opener

With a young and revamped lineup that included six rookies, the DLSU Softball team dropped their season opener to NU, 10-2, yesterday, January 30, at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Diamond.

Both teams started the game with solid defense, as only a single player managed to get on base in the first inning. But later on, the DLSU Softbelles could not respond to the Lady Bulldogs, who went on a huge run by scoring on back-to-back runs followed by consecutive doubles, giving themselves an early 6-0 lead by the end of the second inning.

After being held scoreless through the first three innings, it seemed as if the Softbelles were poised for a comeback with a late rally at the bottom of the fourth inning. During that run, they managed to get on the scoreboard with a two-run double and three players on base. However, NU eventually weathered the storm while further sustaining their offensive attack, adding onto their total score with two runs apiece in the fourth and fifth innings.

The Softbelles were unable to break the strong field play of NU throughout the game, as last year’s runners-up closed the game after securing the final out off a flyball from the right field.

Immediately after the game, the coaching staff and the team gathered in the bullpen to address the necessary adjustments needed for their next game with only a day to rest. In the huddle, DLSU assistant coach Joseph Orillana told his players not to lose heart after an opening loss as there are more games ahead and that the need to be conditioned physically and mentally in the long run is more important.

With six games remaining in the first round over a two-week stretch, the Softbelles are hoping to bounce back, as their next game is scheduled for tomorrow, February 1, at 1 pm against the UE Lady Warriors still at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Diamond.