ABILENE, Texas – McMurry University Softball had a competitive battle with the nation's fifth-ranked team Saturday, but the wheels began to fall off in the final frames as Belhaven defeated the War Hawks 10-3 at Edwards Field.
The War Hawks (16-12, 10-10 American Southwest Conference) rallied back from a 3-1 deficit with a pair of bases loaded walks in the fourth inning, tying things up 3-3. The final three innings proved to be the turning point, as No. 5 Belhaven (22-4, 15-3 ASC) charged ahead with seven late runs.
The Blazers hit back-to-back homers in the first inning, but McMurry answered in the second with an RBI double from Kate Casey to score Jesse Stephenson. Belhaven added a sac fly in the third, making it 3-1.
The fourth inning started with an infield single by Jessika Truax, who smoked one off the pitcher's glove and reached after it fell in no man's land. Casey then picked up a second hit, singling to right center.
From there, McMurry engaged the crowd with three walks. The first one was drawn by Mercedes Camacho, who loaded the bases. Angelica Abila then battled in a 3-2 count and was able to draw ball four, bringing home Brianna Martinez. Emily Michki followed suit two at-bats later, tying it up. A good defensive play ended the inning with a lineout to left field.
A two-run homer by pitcher and designated player Kennedy Carruth gave Belhaven the lead for good, proving to be the go-ahead runs. She won the decision in the circle, improving to a 13-2 record.
McMurry will make the short trip across town for next weekend's series, as they take on rival Hardin-Simmons at Lou Morton Ellis Field April 8-9. Next Friday's doubleheader begins at 4 p.m. The finale is set for Saturday at 12 p.m.
