Amanda Smith

OWENSBORO, Ky. - Amanda Smith hit a three-run homer in the first inning and scattered eight hits over seven innings on the mound as Northern Kentucky University posted an 8-4 win over Kentucky Wesleyan in the opener of a doubleheader on Saturday.

Smith, a freshman pitcher/first baseman, capped a five-run first inning for NKU by hammering a three-run homer. Ricki Rothbauer and Rachele Vogelpohl each had three hits in the opener for the Norse.

Heather Cotner was 2-for-4 and scored twice, while Sarah King added two hits.

In the nightcap, NKU extended its winning streak to 14 games with a 7-2 victory. King and Shatona Campbell each had two RBI to lead the Norse offensive attack.

Freshman pitcher Candace White picked up the win and struck out six batters. She allowed two unearned runs in the sixth inning and did not walk a batter.

NKU improved to 18-6 overall, 2-0 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference. The Norse - who were 16-0 in the GLVC a year ago - have not lost to a GLVC opponent since May 2, 2004.

NKU owns 24 consecutive wins against GLVC teams going into next Saturday’s home doubleheader with Indianapolis.

GAME 1 BOX SCORE

GAME 2 BOX SCORE