Bandits give home fans plenty to cheer about

There's no place like home.

Especially if you are the Chicago Bandits.

In front of 708 spectators, the Bandits christened their new stomping grounds at Judson College by shutting out the Akron Racers 4-0 in the home opener.

For pitcher Jamie Southern, it was a momentous occasion.

With a complete-game shutout, Southern allowed 5 hits while striking out four. Her last complete game was in 2006 as a member of the Akron Racers.

"I was surprised with the complete game," Southern said. "It was nice to get run support early because it allowed me to relax."

The run support came via a 2-run shot over the left-field fence by catcher Rachel Folden with two outs in the first inning. Behind 0-2 in the count, Folden patiently watched 2 balls before breaking the game open with a longball that scored Lindsay Schutzler (1-for-3).

"I missed a really good first pitch," Folden said. "I was glad to connect later in the count. Jamie makes it easy for us. Anytime we can give her run support, we're in great shape for a win."

Southern responded to the 2-run lead by retiring 11 straight before allowing back-to-back hits in the top of the fifth. She quickly pitched out of the jam.

The Bandits (2-3) had added 2 insurance runs in the bottom of the fourth when Nicole Trimboli reached on an error and advanced to second after a walk to Amanda Freed. A single from Aileen Morales loaded the bases for pinch hitter Auriel Jenkins, who was hit by a pitch to score Trimboli.

Stacey May followed with a sacrifice fly to make it 4-0.

"Our defense was awesome behind me," Southern said. "The third time through the lineup, I wasn't going for strikeouts. I knew my teammates had my back."

Bandits owner Bill Conroy was in attendance.

"I couldn't be happier with the facilities, and with the talent we have here," he said. "It's going to be an exciting year."