May 19, 2001

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Florida State pitcher Leslie Malerich allowed just two hits and struck out six to lead the Seminoles to a 2-0 win over Florida Atlantic in Game 10 of the NCAA Softball Regional at the Seminole Softball Complex. With the win, FSU improves to 57-11 and advances to the championship game vs. the undefeated California Golden Bears on Sunday at 1 p.m. FAU finishes its season at 46-21.

The Seminoles picked up a quick run in the first inning as senior Serita Brooks led off with a walk, stole second and with one out, scored on a double by freshman Jessica van der Linden. FSU scored an insurance run in the sixth inning when senior Natalie Bennett reached on an error and scored on the play as the ball got by first base and rolled to the right field fence. Senior Robyn Gauger also recorded two hits for the Seminoles.

"We came out and scored early which I think helped and Leslie (Malerich) threw an awesome game," said FSU head coach Dr. JoAnne Graf. "She stopped them from ever mounting a threat against a very tough offense. Then we were fortunate to get a cheap run at the end to get some insurance. At this stage of the season, you take them however you can get them."

The Lady Owls managed just two hits off of Malerich. In the fourth inning, junior Ninya Ybarra led off with a single to center field and starting senior pitcher Nicole Myers, who finished the season 26-13, singled down the left field line in the seventh inning. On the mound, Myers allowed just four Seminole hits and one earned run, while striking out seven and walking three.

"That last play (Bennett scoring) was just one of those fluke plays that you hate to see happen and it hurt," said FAU head coach Joan Joyce. "I didn't feel that we hit the ball well tonight and when you don't hit the ball, you're not going to win games."

Florida State will have to defeat California twice tomorrow in order to advance to the College World Series as the Golden Bears do not have a loss in the tournament.