BLOOMINGTON, Ill. -- Illinois Wesleyan's softball team improved to 8-4 this season by winning a pair of games by 8-3 scores over Lake Forest College at the IWU Softball Field on Sunday, March 26.

The two losses sent the Foresters' record to 7-9.

Illinois Wesleyan scored six runs in the third inning to snag an early 7-1 lead. IWU had an 11-hit attack in the opener with two hits each coming from sophomore centerfielder Jillian Runyon, junior catcher Amanda Lack and junior rightfielder Maggie Graham, who tripled and had three runs batted in.

Junior starter Mackenzie Marquis got the win to improve to 4-3 as she went four innings, allowing three runs on three hits with three strikeouts. Freshman Brea Walker picked up her first collegiate save by working the final three frames, striking out four and allowing one hit.

The Titans also had 11 hits in game two and, as in the opener, built up a 7-1 lead by scoring five runs in the third inning. Runyon and Graham, who tripled again in game two, had two hits in the nightcap, along with freshman shortstop Sam Berghoff, who touched off a home run, had a double and three RBI, and designated player Stephanie Prentice. Junior Summer Stitt also belted a solo home run to left field in the second inning.

Sophomore starting pitcher Taylor Marvin (3-2) pitched five innings, scattering eight hits with one strikeout. Walker fanned three hitters and allowed four hits in two scoreless innings of relief.

What's Next?
The Titans continue non-conference play at home on Wednesday, March 29, with a 4 p.m. doubleheader against Monmouth College.