The Carthage College softball team swept a nonconference doubleheader against Hope Wednesday at Holland, Mich., winning the first game 2-1 and the second 8-2.

In the first game, Carthage (9-3) broke a scoreless tie with two runs in the third inning. Nikki Soreng led off with a single and went to second on a sacrifice bunt. Jess Fijolek doubled home Soreng and Heather Johnson's single scored Fijolek.

Carthage pitcher Kelsey Epping allowed one run on two hits and struck out 12.

In the second game, Carthage took control early, scoring two runs in the second inning and one in the third. Kari Peterson led off the second inning with a home run, her third of the year, and Fijolek singled in a run. Stephanie Noel opened the third inning with a homer, her first of two in the game.

The Lady Reds increased their lead to 5-0 in the fifth inning on a two-run homer by Noel.

Carthage has hit 10 home runs this season. The team record is 19 set in 2006 and matched in 2007.

Allie Benthusen also led Carthage, going 2-for-3 with two RBIs.

Baseball

CARTHAGE: Because of a threat of rain, Carthage's three-game series against CCIW opponent Wheaton has been cancelled. Instead of a single game Friday, the two teams will play a noon doubleheader today at Alexian Field in Schaumburg, Ill.