ELLICOTT CITY, Md. – The Monroe University – Bronx softball team dropped a pair of games to NJCAA Division II Howard Community College, by scores of 19-1 and 16-0, at Kiwanis Wallas Park on Sunday afternoon.

In the opening game, the Dragons (3-5) scored five runs in the first inning and never looked back. The Express' lone run came in the top of the third when Tiara Desanto scored off an RBI sacrifice bunt courtesy of Kimora Thompson. It was not enough as Howard secured the victory in the opening end of the twin bill.

Leading the way for the Express (0-6) was Desanto who went 2-for-2, including a triple that led to her scoring a run. She also earned a base on balls. Ebony Hernandez singled, walked, and stole a base. Karla Recio Rodriguez reached first with a hit. Heather Torress pitched a scoreless inning in relief. 

For the Dragons, Gianna Peluso hit a three-run homer and drilled a two-run triple. She also crossed home plate three times. In the circle, Sophia Steele struck out six batters in five innings pitched to earn the win.

In Game 2, Howard scored four in the opening frame to take the lead for good and kept building on it throughout the remainder of the contest. 

For Monroe at the plate during the second frame, Desanto doubled. Thompson, Hernandez, and Nevaeh Feliciano each reached base with a single. Recio Rodriguez drew a walk.

For the Dragons, Marissa Webb struck out eight batters in five innings pitched, while going the distance to earn the victory in the circle.

Monroe – Bronx will conclude its season-opening road trip on Tuesday against Middlesex College. First pitch in the doubleheader at Middlesex College Stadium is set for 3 p.m.

ABOUT THE ATHLETIC PROGRAM AT MONROE UNIVERSITY 
The athletic program at Monroe University encompasses a total of 31 teams competing across nine sports. There are 21 varsity and junior varsity programs, as well as club men's and women's rugby, the Monroe University marching band, competing on the New Rochelle campus as the Mustangs (NJCAA Division I). The Monroe Express, based out of the Bronx campus, has seven teams competing at the NJCAA Division III level. 
 
For more information about the Monroe Express, please visit us at www.MonroeExpress.com or follow us on social media: Facebook (Monroe Express), Twitter/X (@MonroeExpress), Instagram (@MonroeExpress), and Threads (@MonroeExpress).