Seventh Ranked Softball Upset by Southern Miss
2/22/2006 12:00:00 AM | Softball
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HATTIESBURG, MS—The Crimson Tide softball team (9-2) started off strong but couldn't finish the deal as they were upset 3-2 by the Southern Miss Golden Eagles (5-9).
Alabama wasted no time getting into the game scoring two runs in the top of the first inning. Kelley Montalvo drew a one-out walk and went around to third on a single by Dominique Accetturo who advanced to second on the throw to third in an attempt to get Montalvo. Montalvo then scored on a passed ball and Accetturo came across to score on a ground out from Allison Moore spotting the Tide a 2-0 lead.
The two pitchers then got locked into a duel allowing a combined four hits over the next four and a half innings until Southern Miss plated two runs in the sixth, tying the game at 2-2. The Golden Eagles got three hits in the inning but were aided by a throwing error from catcher Ashley Holcombe putting a runner on third to setup the first USM run.
Alabama threatened to reclaim the lead in the top of the seventh inning beginning with a lead-off walk to Staci Ramsey. Mallory Benak came on to pinch run for Ramsey and advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt from Stephanie VanBrakle. Katie Johnson reached on an infield single advancing Benak to third but that was as close as Bama would come to scoring.
Southern Miss won the game in the bottom of the seventh on a bases loaded, two-out single from Jessica Huerta to end the game.
Blair Potter (1-0) started the game but got a no-decision allowing one run on three hits while striking out a career high seven batters through five innings. Chrissy Owens (3-2) came on in relief of Potter and collected the loss. Owens allowed two runs, one earned, on four hits while striking out three batters.
The Tide will continue its 11-game road swing this weekend as the team heads to Columbus, Georgia for the prestigious NFCA Leadoff Classic.
GAME NOTES
- Potter recorded a career high seven strikeouts.
- Owens made first relief appearance of the season.
- Alabama leads the all-time series with Southern Miss 3-2.
