Softball Heads To Semi’s With Win Over Georgia

LSU relied on its stars in its 4-1 win over Georgia, with ace Carley Hoover providing the pitching and All-American Bianka Bell providing the offense.

The Tiger got going early in the first inning when Bell launched a two-run home run to center, plating Sandra Simmons and giving the Tigers an early 2-0 lead. In the circle, Hoover managed a potentially dangerous Georgia lineup all-afternoon. She got into some trouble in the third with runner on second and one out, but kept the runner from crossing. In the fourth, Hoover did allow a leadoff single to eventually score, while also leaving a Georgia runner stranded on third.

LSU would regain that one run cushion in the fifth when Bell hit her second home run of the game, again to center field. The Tigers would add an insurance run in the sixth on a Constance Quinn RBI single, which scored Akiya Thymes. Hoover would go into lockdown following the fourth inning, retiring the final nine batters of the game. Her final totals would include three hits, a walk and five strikeouts. Defensively, the Tigers rebounded from a suspect performance on Saturday, committing zero errors in Sunday’s win.

In order for the Tigers to win this tournament, they would need big performances out of their best players. This victory came on the backs of LSU’s top players, players who were going to have to perform to their accolades during the postseason. That’s what occurred Sunday afternoon. Additionally, four runs against a very good Chelsea Wilkinson should not be taken for granted.

LSU’s day is not over as they face Oklahoma at 8:30, following the Florida State-Auburn. Beth Torina has not named a starter but Hoover was fairly economical throwing just 89 pitches, and will likely be available even if she doesn’t start.

Michigan eliminated by FSU

Florida State topped Michigan 1-0 Sunday, eliminating the presumptive favorite Wolverines from the WCWS. Noles pitcher Jessica Burroughs held the top scoring offense of Michigan to just three hits and two walks on the afternoon while striking out five. The lone Florida State run came on a wild pitch by Michigan’s Megan Betsa with the bases loaded.