ST. PAUL, Minn. – The University of Northwestern softball team matched up with NCAA regional host and no. 3 ranked St. Thomas in Thursday's first round game. Following a grand slam by the Tommies in the bottom of the first inning, the home team cruised to a 9-0 (five inning) win over the Eagles.

The regional, which features double elimination play, will showcase Northwestern (27-16) back in action on Friday at 2:30 p.m. against Wartburg (26-12).
 
St. Thomas (39-5) jumped out to a strong start after putting together five hits in the first inning. With two outs on the board, the Tommies loaded the bases and Sam Birling crushed a grand slam over the center field fence.
 
With the momentum flowing for UST, the Eagles were unable to put a dent in the deficit. Northwestern made a last chance effort in the top of the fifth when Briggs Carlson (North Mankato, Minn./Mankato West) put together a strong at bat, drawing a walk. Ciara Scheithauer (Rib Lake, Wis./Rib Lake) followed up with UNW's lone hit of the game to advance Briggs. The spark of offense wasn't enough as St. Thomas ended the inning before any runs could cross the plate.
 
The Tommies will take on UW-Eau Claire in Friday's second round match-up slated for noon with the Northwestern vs. Wartburg game to follow. Follow the Eagles online via live stats and live video.
 
All recaps and schedule updates will be posted online at www.unweagles.com.