April 17, 2012
Box Score
OXFORD, Ohio - The Miami University softball team managed 11 hits against Eastern Kentucky, but was only able to push one run across in a 2-1, 10-inning loss to the Colonels on Tuesday. The RedHawks fall to 25-15 on the season. EKU improves to 20-22.
The loss spoiled another great performance from senior Jessica Simpson. She went all 10 innings, allowing only five total hits. Due to four Miami errors in the contest, neither of the runs she allowed was earned. She struck out 12.
The RedHawks got their run in the bottom of the fifth inning. Kayla Ledbetter led off the frame with a single to right center. She was replaced by pinch runner Tiyona Marshall. Kirstie Fehrenbach singled through the left side to advance Marshall to second. A groundout by Jordan McElroy moved both runners up a base. Megan Mattera followed with a base hit to left field which brought home Marshall. Fehrenbach also tried to score on the play, but the Colonels' left fielder was able to throw her out.
Two throwing errors led to Eastern Kentucky getting the bases loaded with only one out in the top of the sixth. The next batter hit a chopper to short. Kylie McChesney came home to get the force out and then Ledbetter went to first to get try and get the double play. The batter just beat that out, while the runner who had started the play on second came all the way around to score and tie the game at one.
Miami had a great chance to win the game in the bottom of the ninth after it loaded the bases with no one out. EKU reliever Leanna Pittsenbarger rebounded to force the Red and White into a couple of popups and a strikeout to send the game into the 10th.
In the top of the 10th inning, an error would allow the Colonels to bring home the go ahead run. In the bottom of the frame, Kristy Arbour would lead off with a single to left field. Daniela Torres would move her over with a sacrifice bunt. Miami would be unable to advance her any further, as the Colonels hung on for the 2-1 win.
Allie Larrabee was the RedHawks' leading hitter on Tuesday, going 3-for-4. Shanyn McIntyre was 2-for-5.
Miami will look to get back on the winning track when it hosts Central Michigan on Friday for a doubleheader starting at 1 p.m.
