Softball: Glenbrook North rolls past Niles North

Updated: April 24, 2012 8:30PM

Each of the Glenbrook North softball team’s first three runs scored against Niles North was produced by playing small ball.

The Spartans were patient at the plate, generated base runners and able to use their outs to manufacture runs. They held a three-run lead after two innings.

Small ball quickly transformed into an offensive blitzkrieg in the third inning, however. Glenbrook North sent 16 batters to the plate, smacked 11 hits and scored 12 runs in the third en route to a 16-1 victory.

This game “proves that anyone can hit on our team,” said Glenbrook North’s Jenny McTague. “We have a very strong lineup all around. … I think this game was just the lights-out game so far (this season).”

The Spartans received multi-hit games from Rachel Blitt, Ashley Gruenberg, Ali Ruben, Courtney Chron and Ilana Solomon. All nine Glenbrook North starters drove in at least one run.

While the third inning was an offensive dream for Glenbrook North (12-5, 3-1 Central Suburban North), it was the complete opposite for Niles North (7-10, 2-1).

Niles North pitcher Jessica Loy endured the brunt of Glenbrook North’s scoring binge.

“I’m just thinking ‘clear my head, and next strike, next strike,’” said Loy of what she was thinking as Glenbrook North continued getting hits and scoring runs. “That usually helps, but when it doesn’t I’ve got my team there to support me.”

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