Berryman’s blast lifts Northeast over Central on Thursday night

NORFOLK, Neb. – Freshman Maggie Berryman (Norfolk, Neb.) stepped up in big ways on Thursday night for the Northeast Community College softball team.

Berryman's walk-off double gave the Hawks their first victory of the season by the final of 18-17 over Central Community College in nine innings at Ta-Ha-Zouka Park in Norfolk. Northeast (2-10) would go on to take care of the Raiders in the final game of the night, 16-12 in the Highway 81-rivalry.

Tied at 2-2 until the fourth inning, the Hawks responded with seven runs in two innings to the seven runs put up by the Raiders. Both teams matched run-for-run in the eighth and ninth innings, until Berryman sent her walk-off hit near the left-field fence.

Berryman finished 3-for-4 at the plate, with four RBI, two walks and a run. Sydney Kelley (Omaha, Neb.) went 3-for-6 with five RBI, three runs, two stolen bases and a double.

Runs weren't a problem for either team in the final game of the doubleheader tilt. After a five-run second inning, the Hawks put up 11 runs in the third to hold on for the win despite six runs from CCC in the final two innings combined.

Kelley went 3-for-4 at the plate with three RBI, two runs, a double and a walk, while Madison McKewon (Springfield, Neb.) went 3-for-5 with three RBI and two runs. Berryman and Rosario Garcia (Northglenn, Colo.) each added a home run.

McKewon earned the win in the finale, tossing seven innings, allowing 10 earned runs off 19 hits.

The Hawks travel south to battle Central at 3 and 5 p.m. tomorrow in Columbus.

For all news related to Northeast Community College athletics, visit northeasthawks.com for complete coverage. Fans can also follow the Hawks on Twitter @NortheastHawks for game-day coverage.