Box Score FORT MYERS, Fla. – The Northern Illinois University softball team concluded play at the FGCU Invitational hosted by Florida Gulf Coast with a 3-0 win over Florida International at the FGCU Softball Complex on Saturday.
 
NIU (3-2) pounded out six hits in the contest with three extra base hits. The Huskies scored a run in each of the second, third and fourth innings. Carley Goetschius got things going with a home run to left field in the top of the second.
 
In the third, Amberly Rodriguez reached on a one-out error by the Panther pitcher. She advanced to third on a wild pitch and was driven home on a Kelly Wallinksi sacrifice fly to centerfield to put the Huskies up 2-0.
 
A lead-off double by Bianca Barone in the fourth set the table for Sam Mallinder, who came in to pinch hit. Mallinder delivered with a single to center to put NIU up by three.
 
Claire Norred was stellar in the circle, throwing a complete game, one-hit shutout. The Huskie freshman struck out eight while not walking a batter.
 
"It was nice putting the pressure on their defense multiple innings in a row after Carley opened the door for us," said NIU head coach Christina Sutcliffe. "Claire bounced back and threw a fantastic one hitter. Heading home 3-2 is a nice start to our season."
 
The Huskies return to action Saturday, Mar. 6 when NIU travels to Grand Canyon for a weekend series with the Lopes. Game times will be announced closer to gameday.
 
-NIU-