The No. 21 South Carolina softball team remains undefeated after its comeback win to defeat border-state rival North Carolina, rallying from a three-run deficit in the game's final innings to secure the victory.
North Carolina came out of the gate strong, putting up three runs and two hits in the game's first inning. Sophomore pitcher Kadie Becker got the start tonight but was subbed out in the first inning for junior pitcher Jori Heard.
It took until the fourth inning for South Carolina to get a run on the board as redshirt junior infielder Natalie Heath gave the Gamecocks their first run of the evening after an RBI single to get junior catcher Lexi Winters home.
In the bottom of the fifth, junior infielder Arianna Rodi hit a two-run home run to center field to tie the ball game at three. Winters would follow up Rodi's home run with one of her own as she also hit a two-run home run to put the Gamecocks up 5-3, despite a pitching change by the Tar Heels.
The Gamecocks carried the hitting momentum into the sixth inning, with a lead-off double from Heath. After redshirt utility player Quincee Lilio hit a sacrifice ground ball to put runners at second and third for the Gamecocks, the Tar Heels proceeded to walk seven straight batters, leading to six runs in the inning, and ending the game in a run-rule win for South Carolina.
The 12 walks drawn in Tuesday's game ties a program-record for the Gamecocks, with nine Gamecocks recording a walk. Sophomore infielder Karley Shelton's three walks led the team on the evening in the category.
Big hitters
The Gamecocks' offensive surge was pivotal in their comeback, with key contributions from several big hitters. Heath ignited the rally with a single hit to advance Winters to home plate in the bottom of the fourth, followed by a two-run home run by Rodi to tie up the game in the bottom of the fifth.
"I just saw a good pitch ... giving them the confidence that if I can hit the ball, they can hit the ball," Rodi said.
Three straight singles in the bottom of the fourth also helped bring South Carolina back into the game and led to the Gamecocks first run of the evening.
Fielding success
After allowing three runs in the first inning, the Gamecocks' defense tightened, preventing the Tar Heels from scoring in subsequent innings. Key defensive plays included a double play in the third inning, which halted a potential rally by North Carolina.
"I think we were expecting it, it just caught us at the wrong time. Just working on small ball, putting the ball in play and tapping the ball in play," Winters said.
Staying motivated
South Carolina maintained its composure and focus, which was crucial in mounting a successful comeback. Their unwavering motivation and ability to stay focused under pressure were key factors in their triumph.
"They really trust the process," said head coach Ashley Chastain Woodard. "They're tough, and they're gritty, and they know what it feels like to come from behind."
The Gamecocks motivation played a key factor in its late-game turnaround, leading to the run-ruled sixth and final inning. South Carolina outscored the Tar Heels 9-0 in the game's final two innings. Rodi's game-tying homer brought her to a team high three on the season.
What's next?
The Gamecocks (11-0) play host to the Garnet & Black Invitational tournament and take on the Boston University Terriers (7-2) Friday night at Carolina Softball Stadium at Beckham Field. The game will start at 5 p.m. and will stream live on SEC Network+.