Bilotti, Christoffers lead North Penn past Hatboro-Horsham for sixth straight win

TOWAMENCIN — Becky Christoffers was a consistent offensive force for the streaking Maidens on Wednesday afternoon, with her signature shout after each solid swing.

“It’s just something I do — when I hit the ball bad or I have a hard hit,’ the senior said with a smile. “It’s just something that keeps me up.’

Christoffers helped put the Maidens up early on Wednesday and they stayed there, as North Penn earned a 3-1 Suburban One League Continental Conference victory over Hatboro-Horsham, extending its win streak to six.

“I hadn’t been hitting, so I knew I needed to get my bat around,’ said Christoffers, who singled, doubled, scored a run and knocked one in. “Our saying when we hit is ‘˜early and often,’ and we want that every time.’

Right-hander Jackie Bilotti quickly established North Penn control, retiring the first six batters she faced. Bilotti also reached base all three times she went to the plate, including her leadoff at-bat in the bottom of the first.

Christoffers followed with a double and — later with one out — Hannah Uhler knocked her in for a 1-0 Maiden lead against Hatters starter Lexie Campbell. Christoffers’ RBI single in the second, followed by Uhler drawing a bases-loaded walk, increased the North Penn advantage to 3-0.

That’s all the offense the Maidens (13-2, 7-2 conference) would need on this sunny afternoon on their home diamond.

“They played great defense and Jackie pitched great again,’ North Penn coach Rick Torresani said, following the efficient, 75-minute victory. “I can’t ask for anything more than what they’ve done.’

The Hatters (6-6, 4-5) pushed one across in the top of the third, off of an RBI single by Bria Cashman. But Bilotti allowed just three hits the rest of the way, striking out pinch hitter Kaeli Simmons to end the contest.

Battling through the fatigue of a busy schedule due to early-season rainouts, the Maidens are nevertheless maintaining their momentum, and are right back on the diamond this afternoon, hosting Quakertown.

“(Six wins in a row) is definitely a great feeling,’ Christoffers said. “Getting six in a row just gives you something to look forward to with getting seven in a row.

“None of us think that we’ll be that team that fades out and is not playing North Penn softball. We are all girls that have played with each other since youth (league) and we know what to do, and when to do it, and how crucial every inning and every at-bat is.’