May 10, 2008

Box Score

Fayetteville, N.C.--No. 3 Methodist University opened the semifinal of the winner's bracket scoring on a wild pitch to take a 1-0 lead in the first inning of the 2008 NCAA Softball Tournament. Neumann responded with a two-run double to right center giving Neumann a 1-run lead. Back to back singles by Lauren Gallagher and Caitlin Hanrahan set up first-baseman Jen Goslin who hit her 7th double of the season.

After a scoreless second inning, Neumann's offense prevented the tournament host from scoring in the third as Sebasto gave up just one hit keeping Neumann ahead. Neumann picked up the bats and went to work extending their lead to 4-0 when Gallagher, Hanrahan and Sebasto singled followed by a 2 RBI single by Danielle Hayes which gave Neumann all it would need to secure the win.

The two teams went scoreless in the 4, 5 and 6 innings. Methodist attempted a late rally in the 7^th when Billye Rivas drew a walk and a two out single by Megan Hutson brought the tying run to the plate. Rekekah Kelly singled sending Hutson across the plate to close the gap on the Knights' lead. However, Neumann pulled together and never lost sight of its goal. With runners on first and second Nadia Stevenson came to the plate and hit a high fly ball to center field. As Knights fans everywhere held their breath Sheila Munson took her position under the ball and captured the third and final out of the game giving Neumann its second NCAA victory in school history.

Head Coach Bill Saar commented after the game stating, "We're looking forward to playing the #1 seed tomorrow at 10am. It's going to be one pitch, one play at a time."

With the win the Knights improve to 29-12 on the season and are guaranteed two more games in the regional. They will face No. 1 Lynchburg College on Saturday at 10:00 a.m.

For more information log on to the Fayetteville Regional Website at http://www.methodist.edu/monarchs/softball/08ncaafirstrd.htm