FORT MYERS, Fla. –
Allison Sparkman went 6.1 innings, only allowing one earned run on the game but Florida Gulf Coast University softball fell to Boston College 2-1 on Thursday.
"Sparkman bounced back well to give us some good length against a good team," FGCU head coach
David Deiros said. "Our defense came up clutch in some big opportunities to keep us in the game but we weren't able to pull it out. Our focus is on tomorrow for our rematch with Boston College and a game against Indiana State."
The game started rocky with Boston College getting a single on the opening at bat after eight pitches. Sparkman would strike out the next batter but Boston College swiped second on the strikeout to get into scoring position. On the very next play, a single allowed the first run to come across.
Boston College would eventually bring another across in the inning for the early 2-0 lead. Sparkman tightened up after that and went the next 5.1 innings without allowing a run. FGCU's defense came through in big spots turning two double plays, including an inning ending double play in the seventh to keep the game close.
The Green and Blue offense showed promise but ultimately could only bring one to cross home.
In the third inning,
Kalista Birkenstock came in to pinch run and swiped second base. A sacrifice bunt allowed Birkenstock to third with one out but she was stranded at third.
FGCU continued the offensive pressure in the fourth, getting the bases loaded off some patient work at the plate.
Nikki Gibson earned a walk after falling behind 0-2.
Ana Richiez walked on a two-strike count, to load the bases.
Maddox Thomas eventually brought the first run of the 2025 season across for FGCU with another walk, after falling behind 1-2.
The Green and Blue return to action tomorrow to face Boston College and Indiana State. Scheduled first pitch is 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Both games will be streamed on ESPN+.
