Glendale, Ariz. – The softball team at Park University Gilbert dropped their first road game of the season against the Firestorm of Arizona Christian University 6-1.

Head coach Brandon Telesco said, "Frustrated with the result, but we will continue to build toward the future. It's not about how you start, but how you finish. I am excited for what's in front of us."

During the first inning, the Buccaneers struggled to stay on base with Savannah Smith pitching from the circle. Smith allowed just four hits in the bottom of the first, preventing any runners from scoring. 

To close out the first, Neely Bell singled to left field, sending Claire Buckley through to home plate. The Firestorm led by one as they headed into the second inning.

Park saw success after Mariah Martinez stole third on a passed ball. Sierra Meyers grounded out to short in her first at bat, allowing Martinez to score the teams first run of the day. 

Before Abril Nerey and Martinez split the inning, five more runs came from ACU during the bottom of the third and fifth. Park was unable to produce any momentum during the final innings, leading them with just one run to cap the afternoon.

The Bucs return to play in a doubleheader on Feb 14. against the University of Antelope Valley in Lancaster, Calif. 

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