It was a milestone night for Durham College women’s fastball head coach Jim Nemish as he earned his 400th career victory in a Lords 5-3 win over Conestoga Thursday night.

In his career which spans 25 years as the Lords head coach, Nemish has compiled an overall record of 400-100-2, the most wins of any coach in OCAA history.

The Lords would rely on solid pitching, good fielding and timely hitting in Thursday’s win, as the teams battled in a close opening night match-up.

Lydia Kalbfleisch had a strong start on the mound for Durham allowing two runs over five innings while striking out four batters and earning the win. Freshman Danielle Crosby earned the two inning save allowing one.

Conestoga showed that they are a team not to be taken lightly in 2013 as they hung with the Lords for the entirety of the game. Starting pitcher Lauren Ruf looked impressive going the distance allowing five runs off of nine hits.

The Lords had the early edge as Brittany Bender had a bases clearing double in the second inning giving Durham a 3-0 lead. Conestoga would manage to cut the lead to just one run in the top of the sixth inning, as they cashed in two runners. However, Durham was able to add one more run in the bottom half of the inning and shut down a Condor rally in the seventh to pick up the win.

Ashley Black had the hot stick for Durham going 2-for-3 at the plate, while six other players had one hit.

Durham’s next action is scheduled for Saturday, September 14 against the St. Clair Saints. First pitch for the doubleheader is at 3 p.m. Saturday’s doubleheader is minor softball day at the diamond.