Sharks Blank Daytona in Game 1, 3-0

Miami, FL - Miami Dade set the tone early and never looked back, taking Game 1 of the doubleheader with a 3-0 shutout over Daytona State College.

The Sharks (9-5, 1-2) improved their conference mark behind a complete-game performance from Amanda Handa, who delivered seven strong innings in the circle. Handa (7-2) scattered just three hits, allowed no runs and worked around four walks while striking out five. She faced 29 batters and kept Daytona off balance all afternoon, sealing her seventh win of the season.

Miami Dade struck first in the opening inning. Alyssa Densmore came through with an RBI single, advancing to second on the throw as Ebba Sofia Eriksson crossed the plate to make it 1-0. The Sharks added on in the second when Caroline Mito grounded out to second base, driving in Maria Julia Pedroso for a 2-0 lead.

The insurance run came in the fifth. With the bases loaded, Leyani Viruet was hit by a pitch to bring home Densmore and extend the advantage to 3-0.

Offensively, the Sharks collected five hits and drew four walks against Daytona's Ava Unser, who entered the game with a 10-2 record. Densmore led the way, going 1-for-1 with two walks and an RBI. Mito added two hits and an RBI, while Eriksson and Cate Haggerty each recorded a hit. On the bases, Miami Dade applied pressure all game, swiping four bags, including two from Mito.

Daytona State (16-7, 3-2) managed just three hits and stranded eight runners. Despite drawing four walks, they were unable to capitalize against Handa's steady presence in the circle.

Miami Dade's aggressive base running, timely hitting and dominant pitching proved to be the difference as the Sharks secured the opener of the doubleheader.