Softball Rallies Past USF, Again
April 03, 2005 | Softball
After being held scoreless through the first 5.2 innings, East Carolina (43-11, 9-3 C-USA), put two runs on the board in the top of the sixth, scoring both runs with two outs. Senior Shirley Burleson reached on an error to lead off the frame and then scored the game-tying run on a two-out double by senior Kate Manuse.
Following an intentional walk to senior Mandi Nichols, freshman Beth Nolan singled to plate the game-winning run.
USF (26-17, 5-4 C-USA) attempted to make a comeback in the bottom of the seventh but fell short. Stewart opened up the inning getting on base with a single after working a full-count off pitcher Stephanie Hayes, which put the tying run on base. A sacrifice bunt by Krista Holle and an obstruction call on the Pirates' shortstop put Stewart at third with one out. On a fielder's choice by Carmela Liwag, Stewart tried to score from third, jumping over catcher Krista Jessup, but was tagged out at the plate for the second out of the inning. The Bulls still had a runner at first, but Spence grounded out to end the game, 2-1, in East Carolina's favor.
USF opened up the scoring in the bottom of the first, 1-0. Tiffany Stewart led off with an infield single and stole second. A fielding error put runners at the corners with one out. Bree Spence drove in Stewart from third off a groundout.
Stephanie Hayes tossed all seven innings, picking up her tenth win of the year on seven hits, one run and two walks. Spence also pitched a complete game, only dishing out four hits, five strikeouts, one walk and two runs ? neither of which was earned.
The Pirates return to action Thursday, April 7, against North Carolina. The game is scheduled for a 4 o'clock start in Greenville.
