Freshman’s Debut Is No Summer Day

Well, Summer Richardson, you’re not in Boron anymore.

UCLA made that clear Wednesday by scoring eight earned runs in the first inning against Richardson, a right-hander making her college debut for Cal State Northridge.

The Bruins’ 8-0 victory--called after 4 1/2 innings because of the mercy rule--completed a nonconference doubleheader sweep in Westwood for third-ranked UCLA, which dismissed the Matadors, 6-0, in the opener.

Richardson, an all-state selection at Boron High and Northridge’s most notable recruit, had perhaps the worst inning of her career, facing 12 batters, throwing 43 pitches and allowing five consecutive hits, including home runs on back-to-back pitches.

Coach Janet Sherman opted to stay with Richardson, who didn’t give up another hit, hoping the hard-throwing freshman would adjust and learn from the experience.

Northridge managed just three hits off of Amanda Freed (5-0).

In the first game, Northridge ace Tara Glaister allowed one hit through 3 2/3 innings. But after giving up an earned run in the fourth, Glaister surrendered four hits and two walks in the fifth and was pulled in favor of Jessica Creith.

Courtney Dale (4-0) allowed three hits and struck out nine for UCLA (9-0).