Roark throws perfect game against IPFW

Coming off a tough seven-game road trip, the IU softball team returned to Bloomington this weekend for its first home games of the season.\n"We wanted to come out and show everyone what we're capable of," said sophomore Tory Yamaguchi.\nWith a nine-game losing streak on their shoulders, the Hoosiers started off strong in the first half of a doubleheader Saturday morning against Western Michigan, winning 2-1.\nJunior Megan Roark won her fifth game of the season as she threw a complete game, striking out five batters.\nIn the second half of the twin bill, IU took an early 2-0 lead, but Western Michigan scored four unearned runs in the fifth inning.\nThe Hoosiers had a chance to tie the game in the sixth but failed to capitalize, giving the Broncos the win.\nAfter splitting the doubleheader with Western Michigan Saturday, IU faced IU-Purdue University at Fort Wayne Sunday morning, winning 8-0. Roark continued her weekend dominance throwing a perfect game, the third in IU softball history.\n"The offense and defense just really clicked," Roark said. "Christy Wahl made a great catch to save a hit in her first game at shortstop."\nFacing the minimum 18 batters over six innings, Roark struck out ten for the game.\n"Megan was in complete control over the batters," IU coach Stacey Phillips said. "The defense really stepped up behind her."\nYamaguchi gave Roark some offensive support with a home run, her fifth of the season and second for the weekend.\nThe Hoosiers were unable to continue their hot play Sunday afternoon against Loyola, losing 6-1. The Ramblers jumped on starter Katie Witham early, scoring four runs in the top of the first inning.\nSophomore left fielder Heather Hohs came home from second on a Loyola error to score, but that was all the offense the Hoosiers could muster. IU managed only four hits against Loyola starter Kristen Cefalu.\nIU will play Ball State at home Tuesday before traveling to Indiana State for a doubleheader Wednesday.\n"It's nice to be home," Roark said. "We've been looking forward to this home stand."\n-- Contact Staff Writer Tim O'Brien at tpobrien@indiana.edu.