Austin, TX-After adjustments in circle by both Louisiana-Layette and UH. The Cougar bats found their rhythm, scoring 5 runs, on 5 hits, in the top of the third, to break the game open. Then 1 run, on 2 hits, in the next, giving them a 6 run lead. To their credit, Louisiana-Lafayette defense had not had any errors up to this point of the game UH just had well placed hits in the gaps. Louisiana-Lafayette Jr, P, Ashley Brignac went the complete game. "It was our game plan. that's what the coaches put in front of her and she tried to execute (the pitches). Ashley's an outstanding pitcher. She's been outstanding all year long." Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajun' Softball Co-Head Coach Stefni Lotief spoke on her Junior pitchers performance. She also spoke about Cougar's Sr, P, Amanda Crabtree, "...I saw a lot of movement. I saw her throw a back-door curve on the inside half. I saw her get in trouble later in the game. Early on, I think the momentum shifted in that big 5 run inning and they fed off it."
With a walk and an throwing error by the UH infield. Louisiana-Lafayette gets on base and scores 2 runs during the bottom of the fifth. And the shutout by UH starter Sr, Amanda Crabtree is over. She went 4 2/3, 6K's, then is relieved by Frosh, P, Deidre Outon. She holds her own over the last 2 1/3, having another great save. "We knew that they were an offensive team. This is an offensive regional. As a pitcher, any time that your team puts up that many runs it definitely gives you some breathing room...," was UH Cougar Sr, P, Amanda Crabtree comment on her performance today.
UH Cougar Head Coach Kyla Holas summed it up pretty good,"We are obviously very excited about the outcome of today, but we know that this is just the first game of a very long weekend with a lot of of work still left to do." She continued, "I think anytime in the post season when you can put that many runs on the board early you're definitely going to be able to control the momentum. We worked really hard all week on trying to get that timely hit."
Side note: There was an hour and 37 minute weather delay. Texas is fielding and Texas State has runners at the corners, 2 outs. Top of the 5th. Texas leads Texas State 1-0.
Final: Texas wins 2-0. They will play tomorrow 1PM. While Louisiana-Lafayette will play Texas State, 3:30PM.
