The second game of the NCAA super regional between Tennessee softball and Alabama was a lengthy and hard-fought battle that ultimately ended in a 3-2 victory for Alabama after 14 innings. The Lady Vols struggled to capitalize with runners in scoring position, leaving 18 runners on base throughout the game. Despite their efforts, Tennessee was unable to push through and secure the win. The loss marked the longest game in program history for the Lady Vols and the longest super regional game in NCAA history.
Sophia Nugent’s solo home run initially gave Tennessee a 2-1 lead, but Alabama responded to tie the game in the fourth inning. Both teams went scoreless for 10 innings before Alabama was able to break the deadlock. Kiki Milloy was a standout player for Tennessee, going 3-for-5 with two walks, but their inability to convert with runners on base proved costly.
Tennessee’s pitchers, Payton Gottshall and Karlyn Pickens, put up a strong fight, with Pickens ultimately holding the Tide scoreless in regulation. Pickens finished the game with 10 strikeouts, five hits allowed, three walks, and three hit batters in 9⅓ innings.
The loss sets up a decisive best-of-three series finale between Tennessee and Alabama to determine who will advance to the Women’s College World Series. Both teams will be looking to bounce back from this marathon game and come out on top in the series finale.
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