After getting some early run support, sophomore pitcher Rachel Herrick pitched out of a fifth-inning, bases-loaded jam as No. 2 Northeast came away with a 3-2 win over top-ranked Arundel yesterday in Gambrills.

After driving in what turned out to be the game-winning run with a single to center in the third, Herrick saved her best for the mound in the pivotal fifth inning.

The Wildcats (11-2) had scored twice to cut the lead to 3-2, and still had the bases loaded with one out and their cleanup and No. 5 hitters coming up.

Herrick got Alexis Viera to pop out and then Bre Kitchen grounded out to second to end the threat.

The Eagles (11-2) scored single runs in the first, second and third innings and Herrick made them stand up in improving to 4-0. Arundel pitcher Soraya Grace didn't allow a hit after the third inning.

Pub Date: 4/23/99