LOUISVILLE, Ky.— Pre-season ASUN Pitcher of the Year Emily Kirby was at her best on Saturday afternoon.  Kirby tossed a no-hitter in a 2-0 shutout of Bellarmine.
 
The Knights turned in a very strong performance in the circle themselves, holding Liberty scoreless the final five innings and to seven hits for the entire game.  The Flames had multiple opportunities early to extend the lead, but the Bellarmine pitching and defense continuously answered the bell.
 
With the bases loaded in the first inning, Rachel Roupe was hit by a pitch to bring in the first run of the game.  In the second inning, K.C. Machado homered to left center field to push the Liberty lead to 2-0.  The Flames had the bases loaded again in the fourth inning with just one out, but pitcher Megan Murphy induced 6-2 fielder's choice and fly out to end the inning.
 
Bellarmine used all three of its primary pitchers throughout the contest.  Carson Goatley tossed the first two innings for Bellarmine, while Murphy pitched the third and fourth innings.  Murphy allowed three hits and one walk but kept Liberty scoreless.  Claire Lehmkuhler was fantastic the final three innings, limiting the Flames to just two hits.
 
Alexis Hargrove and Hannah Webb made several strong plays in the infield to help keep the game within reach, but the Knights were unable to generate offense against Kirby. 
 
Emily O'Dee walked in the first inning, and Olivia Bricker reached on a dropped throw by the first baseman in the second.  Kirby kicked it into gear afterwards, however, retiring 17 consecutive Bellarmine batters.  Kirby ended the game with 12 strikeouts.
 
Bellarmine travels to Evansville on Wednesday for a midweek doubleheader against the Purple Aces before a weekend series at Central Arkansas next Saturday and Sunday.

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