Luther wins tournament opener 1-0 in ten innings
May 7, 2009
It took 10 innings before Luther advanced to the semifinals of the NCAA III Softball Championship- First Round, defeating Washington University - St. Louis 1-0 this evening. Simpson College is hosting the eight-team, double elimination regional tournament May 7-10.
Kelsey Hake drove in Jackie Miller with an rbi single down the right field line in the top of the 10th. Miller, who was 2-for-4, scored from second base sliding under the tag at home plate.
The play of the game took place in the bottom have of this same frame. The Bears Lindsey Cavarra hit a lead off shot that just missed clearing the center field fence. Luther center fielder Kim Hess, grabbed the ball off the wall, and threw a strike to second base, throwing out Cavarra. Kim Lambert, who took over for Hake in the sixth, struck out the final two hitters, securing the first round victory. Hess also had a big night at the plate going 3-for-4 with a walk.
Lambert was credited with the win. She allowed just one hit and struck out two. At one point she retired 13 consecutive batters. Hake started the game and threw just as well, allowing just two singles, walking one and striking out one.
The win increases Luther's overall record to 34-9. Washington University, the #3 seed of the regional, falls to 24-12.
The Norse will return to action tomorrow and will face the winner between #7 Gustavus and #2 Central at 5:00 p.m.. This game will be audio streamed by KWLC.
