Alyna Dolan helps Bayport-Blue Point softball reach 16-1 with gem vs. East Islip
Alyna Dolan of Bayport Blue Point HS on the mound pitching to the East Islip HS girls softballl team Credit: Gary Licker
Even with a new pitcher in the circle, the Bayport-Blue Point softball team has picked up right where it left off.
Senior Alyna Dolan struck out seven batters in a complete game victory, leading the visiting Phantoms past East Islip, 4-2, in a non-league matchup on Saturday. Dolan allowed six hits, two unearned runs and walked none.
“When she gets onto the mound, she has a presence,” coach Nicholle Marchetta said. “She has a confidence that has really bloomed this season.”
Last season, it was Erin McMahon who pitched the Phantoms to their first Long Island championship since 1991. But after McMahon graduated, Dolan has taken over that role.
“It was a little intimidating at first,” Dolan said. “But I know my team always has my back, so I don’t get stressed in the circle.”
Dolan is no stranger to the big moment, however. When injuries plagued the Phantoms two seasons ago, Dolan stepped up and pitched them into the playoffs.
“She’s been incredible for us,” centerfielder Isabella Hurst said. “She’s a massive asset both at bat and on the mound.”
Hurst went 3-for-4 and doubled home Kelly Graf and Linda Edwards to cap off a four-run fifth inning. Avery Crank and Sarah Benedict scored the first two runs on an error earlier in the frame.
“I knew I needed to get on,” Hurst said. “With Kelly on third, it was important for me to get a hit and bring us up more.”
Graf went 1-for-3 with two RBIs and Crank and Edwards each went 1-for-2. Kayla Varga went 2-for-3 with a double for East Islip (13-5).
The Phantoms improved to 16-1, and Marchetta says the depth of their lineup has been critical to their consistency this season.
“If you asked me if I’d be batting 10 [players], I’d never say yes,” Marchetta said. “I have a lot of girls batting right now but it’s because they’re producing. We have solid contributions through the entire 10 and I feel really good about what they’re doing for us.”
The reigning Long Island champions have their eyes set on a repeat, and have added motivation to go even further. The Phantoms can still recall their loss to Maine-Endwell in the state Class A semifinals last season.
“We know what it’s like to get there," Dolan said, "so we’re determined to get there again."
“They did not like that feeling when we walked away from that state game,” Marchetta said. “They’re hungry.”
