FOREST GROVE, Ore. – The Pacific Lutheran University softball team opened up their Oregon road trip earning a doubleheader split against No. 25 Pacific in Oregon. The Lutes won game one 12-8, before falling to the No. 25 Boxers in game two 6-4.

"We came out strong against their defense in game one and had an aggressive offensive game," said Head Coach Traci Barrett. "I was so proud of our dugout on both sides of the game today. That is such a crucial part of the game and doesn't always get the most recognition."

The Lutes (12-9, 4-6 NWC) struck first in game one, plating two first inning runs when Kathryn Hatlen reached on a fielder's choice followed by a bases loaded walk of Kennedy Robillard. The Boxers (15-6, 9-1 NWC) hoped ahead in the bottom of the first, but the lead only lasted a half inning when Robillard singled in Hatlen.

The bats remained hot throughout game one with Hatlen finishing three-for-five as the Lutes pounded 14 hits on the night. Robillard earned her first win over the Boxers, striking out one.

"We have been working on creating a more solid mindset with hits against us and our outfielders did a good job of preventing extra bases."

The Boxers struck first in the second game, plating four runs in the first two innings before the Lutes answered with two in the fourth inning. Becca Sorensen scored on an error by the pitcher followed by a single from Samantha Simundson. A double from Overland and single by Robillard to bring in two more Lute runs in the seventh were just not enough to overcome the Boxers, with the final score being 6-4.

"In game two, we had clutch hits by several players late in the game, but did not produce hits with bases loaded in two different innings. Tomorrow is a new day and we can't wait to get back at them."

Action begins at 12 p.m. in Forest Grove of the final two games of the series.