In a commanding display of offensive prowess, the No. 13 Alabama Crimson Tide softball team overwhelmed the No. 14 South Carolina Gamecocks with a 13-1 run-rule victory in just five innings on Thursday night at Carolina Softball Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina. This decisive win marked Alabama’s first run-rule triumph in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play since 2023 .
The game began with Alabama capitalizing on a South Carolina throwing error in the first inning, allowing second baseman Kali Heivilin to score and set the tone for the evening. However, it was the explosive second inning that truly defined the game. The Crimson Tide sent 13 batters to the plate, amassing 10 runs on nine hits. Catcher Marlie Giles ignited the rally with an RBI single and later capped the inning with a three-run homer, her fifth of the season. Freshman Audrey Vandagriff contributed a two-run double, while Lauren Johnson and Heivilin added RBI hits to extend the lead to 11-0 .
South Carolina managed to score a single run in the bottom of the second inning, but Alabama responded with two more runs in the fourth, courtesy of a bases-loaded walk and a hit-by-pitch, bringing the final score to 13-1. Pitcher Jocelyn Briski delivered a solid performance, allowing just one run on four hits over four innings, while Alea Johnson closed the game with a perfect fifth inning .
This dominant victory not only showcased Alabama’s offensive depth but also served as a significant momentum boost as they approach the postseason. The Crimson Tide’s ability to capitalize on opportunities and maintain pressure throughout the game underscores their potential as a formidable contender in the upcoming SEC Tournament.
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