The University of Texas at Tyler softball team opened up the West Regional tournament Thursday afternoon with a 2-1 win against the University of the Redlands.
Megan “Roo” Richardson lead of the game with a double to left-center field and scored on a double by Whitney Wyly that barely missed being a home run.
The University of Texas at Tyler softball team opened up the West Regional tournament Thursday afternoon with a 2-1 win against the University of the Redlands.
Megan “Roo” Richardson lead of the game with a double to left-center field and scored on a double by Whitney Wyly that barely missed being a home run.
Patriot Megan Hutson attempts to beat a University of Redlands runner second Thursday during the NCAA Regional playoff game in Marshall. The Patriots prevailed, 2-1. Photo by Christy Grant
The Redlands tied the game in the bottom of the second inning. Roxy Lambert doubled to left field and Amanda Doeppel scored from second base. However, the run was unearned because of a Patriot error earlier in the inning.
In the fifth inning, the Patriots loaded the bases with no one out. Redlands pitcher Olivia Ellis got fly outs from Julie Smith and Wyly, but walked Ashley Klores to give the Patriots a 2-1 lead.
Patriots’ starter Stacy Shepherd took care of business in the remaining innings to advance the Patriots into the winner’s bracket.
“I was a little nervous going out at first, but felt comfortable and more relaxed as the game went on,” Shepherd said after the game. “I counted on my movement today…my teammates said they were behind me and I trusted them and knew that any ground ball or pop up would be taken care of.”
Shepherd pitched the complete game, giving up only four hits and one unearned run.
Head coach Mike Reed seemed pleased with his team’s performance as well.
“Shepherd threw outstanding again. Defensively we gave away some and played a little sloppy, but Shepherd kept us in it and that’s what good pitching does for you,” he said.
The Patriots will play Linfield, the one seed for the tournament, Friday afternoon and 4 p.m. at Taylor Field on the campus of East Texas Baptist University. Linfield defeated the Redlands 8-5 Friday evening, which eliminated the Bulldogs.
By Clay Ihlo Sports Writer
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