Ramaley Dominates on the Mound and at the Plate as Hopewell Blanks Gateway 10–0

The Hopewell Varsity Vikings delivered a commanding 10–0 shutout over Gateway High School on Thursday, and the story of the game was junior pitcher Allison Ramaley, who turned in a near-flawless performance in the circle and made a major impact at the plate.

Masterclass from the Circle

Ramaley earned the win for Hopewell with five shutout innings, allowing just four hits, striking out seven, and walking only one batter. Her precision and control kept Gateway off balance from the outset, as she methodically worked through the lineup to register her latest statement win of the season.

This outing exemplified Ramaley’s growing stature as one of the Vikings’ most reliable arms. Her dominance on the mound allowed Hopewell to hold the Gators scoreless, and it was far from an isolated performance. On the season, she holds a 4.67 ERA, the second-best on the team, and is among team leaders in total innings pitched and strikeouts. She has consistently kept opponents in check, contributing to Hopewell’s overall 9–7 record, including a 5–5 mark in WPIAL Section 3A-2 play.

Leading the Hit Parade

Ramaley also made her presence felt at the plate, going 2-for-3 to lead Hopewell in hits and collect two RBIs. Her contributions on offense helped jumpstart a Vikings lineup that put early pressure on Gateway.

The first inning was especially explosive for Hopewell. The Vikings jumped ahead after Tallulah Showrank was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, bringing home a run. Dakota Roche followed and was also hit by a pitch, scoring another. Then, Marina Pinchotti stepped up with a clutch single to drive in two more runs. The Vikings took a 4-0 lead before Gateway could register an out.

Showrank ended the day 1-for-1 with three RBIs, while Pinchotti’s timely single in the first gave her two RBIs. Despite Ramaley leading in hits, offensive contributions came from all over the lineup. Mann, Barkovich, and Roche each chipped in with an RBI, rounding out a balanced attack.

Clean Fielding, Total Control

Hopewell’s defensive sharpness matched its offensive efficiency. The Vikings played error-free softball, executing clean plays across the field. Dakota Roche led all players with seven fielding chances, ensuring that Gateway never found rhythm at the plate.

On the base paths, the Vikings were aggressive and effective, swiping four stolen bases. While walk totals were high, the team’s discipline helped them load the bases and apply constant pressure, which ultimately forced Gateway’s starter to labor through five innings. The Gateway pitcher allowed six hits and 10 earned runs, while striking out four and issuing 10 walks.

Gateway’s Quiet Day

Gateway struggled to generate momentum. Batters #8, #22, #1, and #5 each registered a single hit, and the team turned a double play late in the game to prevent further damage. Like Hopewell, Gateway played error-free defense, with #22 leading the team with five fielding chances.

However, the team was no match for Ramaley’s command on the mound or Hopewell’s opportunistic hitting.

Vikings’ Season Outlook

The win pushes Hopewell to 9–7 overall and 4th place in WPIAL 3A Section 2.

Beyond Ramaley’s pitching dominance, she has also become a critical part of Hopewell’s offensive core, tallying 15 RBIs this season, second only to senior leader Victoria Mann (28 RBIs). Her performance against Gateway is a microcosm of her all-around value to the Vikings.

Hopewell looks to keep the momentum going at home on Monday, May 5, when they host Riverside High School. With Viking pitching in peak form and the team playing sharp defense and timely offense, the Vikings are poised to finish the regular season strong.