LA JOLLA, Calif. –Kim Nelson's two-hit shutout gem blanked the Penguin bats as the Saints claimed an 8-0 victory over Dominican University in six innings.

 The Saints (2-2) gained the early advantage after Mary Dettling drove in Lauren Diuco on a single down the left field line. Diuco reached base on single to left and moved into scoring position on a sacrifice bunt from Lindsay Miller.

SMU broke open the lead in the third inning, plating five runs to take a 6-0 lead. Alyssa Slate doubled to lead-off, and scored on a single from Diuco. Diuco advanced on a ground out and wild pitch to then score on a Mary Dettling double. Dettling moved up to third on a wild pitch, and was waved home after a throwing error from the catcher, trying to throw out Dettling at third. Sabrina Hicks' double and Nelson's walked converted into runs on a fielding error by the Penguins (0-4) to cap off the inning.

Saint Martin's added a run in the fourth inning on a Corrie Wilson double down the left field line, scoring L. Miller. Another insurance run was tacked on in the sixth inning after Slate capitalized on the Penguins' mistakes, scoring on a fielding error.

Nelson started and finished the Saints, only allowing two runners all game, retiring the final seven batters of the game. Her perfect game was broken-up in the third inning on a two out single to right field. Nelson relied heavily on her defense, striking out zero and forcing six fly-outs and 12 ground balls.

SMU as a team finished with eight runs on nine hits, three walks, four doubles and six Saints were left on base.

"Kim Nelson threw a great game. She was very consistent with hitting her spots and catching the hitters off balance" said head coach Rick Noren. "We had a lot of clutch hits in the game and hope to carry on our momentum to Monday".

Up Next: The Saints stay in California for a double-header on Monday against Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. The Cougars are currently 4-0 on the early season.