Columbus, Ind. – The IU Columbus Crimson Pride proved their resilience in thrilling fashion, rallying from behind to claim a doubleheader sweep over Midway University (Ky.). After a hard-fought 7-4 victory in the first game, the Crimson Pride capped off their comeback in the second with a 6-5 win, highlighted by a walk-off double from Lily Culp in the final inning. IU Columbus erased a four-run deficit to secure the win, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and wrapping up an unforgettable day of softball.
Game 1: Crimson Pride Overcome Early Deficit to Take 7-4 Win
In the opening game, the Crimson Pride were quick to find themselves in a hole, as the Eagles jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first inning. A double by Kennadi Thompson followed by a miscue by the pitcher allowed Midway to extend their advantage. But the Crimson Pride weren't discouraged, as Justice Cash settled in and limited the damage, giving her offense time to respond.
IU Columbus answered in the second inning. A series of smart plays and heads-up base-running allowed IUC to cut into the deficit. An error by the Midway catcher on a fielder's choice allowed Gracie Holok to score, and Lex Heafner delivered a clutch three-RBI double to give IU Columbus a commanding 4-2 lead.
Midway threatened again, but Cash remained composed, shutting down their lineup through the next several innings. After a couple of more unearned runs were plated in the third and sixth innings, the Crimson Pride's defense remained solid, with a key double play late to stifle any further Midway rally. Cash threw a complete game, allowing just four runs on seven hits with one strikeout, and was the winning pitcher as the Crimson Pride sealed the deal.
Game 2: Late Heroics Propel IU Columbus to 6-5 Comeback
The second game started in much the same fashion, with Midway coming out swinging early. Midway jumped to a 4-0 lead after a big first inning, which included a two-run homer by Ryann Berger. But IU Columbus quickly answered with a run of their own in the bottom of the first, as Izzy Johnson's fielder's choice drove in Holok.
Despite another run by the Crimson Pride in the second to trim the deficit to 4-2, Midway continued to play strong defense, limiting the damage through the middle innings. But IU Columbus continued to chip away, and it was in the final frame that the game truly became a battle of wills.
In the seventh, down by one, IUC came alive. Johnson doubled home Heafner to cut the deficit to one. Then, Mallory Shelton, who had already homered earlier in the game, came through again with another clutch double that brought Johnson home to tie the game. Finally, Lily Culp, who had been on base all day, doubled once more to drive in Shelton and seal the dramatic 6-5 win for IU Columbus.
Erica Henry earned the victory in the second game, going the distance and pitching seven strong innings, allowing five runs on eight hits while striking out three. Her composure in the late innings was critical to the Crimson Pride's comeback victory.
Looking Ahead
The Crimson Pride will look to carry their momentum from the thrilling sweep into their next contest as they continue their early season campaign. IUC is back in action, on their home turf, Monday (Mar. 10) versus Grace Christian University. The first game is scheduled to start at 2:00 PM.
