Illini softball suffers first loss of season

By Kate Munson

After starting the season with a pair of victories Friday, the Illini were unable to pull off a win against No. 14 California on Saturday.

The Illini managed six hits against Golden Bears’ junior pitcher Marissa Drewery, but only drove one runner in as they fell 9-1 in six innings.

But sophomore Danielle Zymkowitz provided a bright spot for Illinois in a game that was delayed for two hours due to rain. The second baseman drove in the lone run for the Illini, giving her five RBIs on the young season.

Junior pitcher Christine Christopoulos saw her first action of the season in the game, retiring the Golden Bears in order in the fifth before surrendering the final two runs in the sixth.

Illinois was also slated to battle No. 20 Long Beach State on Saturday, but the contest was cancelled due to inclement weather.

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The Orange and Blue wrap up the Cathedral City Kickoff against UC Davis on Sunday.