March 7, 2012
by Koby Padgett
Assistant Media Relations Director
CONWAY, S.C. – South Carolina (16-5) dropped a tough one in game one at Coastal Carolina (14-4) 2-1 on Cacia Pierre’s walk-off homer at the CCU Softball Field.
After failing to get a bunt down on the first three pitches, Pierre sent the 1-2 offering over the wall in right, scoring pinch runner Beth Kassuhn after she replaced Chelsea Pineda after she singled to left to start the frame.
South Carolina nearly made their first-inning run stand up for the game. Junior shortstop Samie Garcia hit a slow roller to second, but the throw was dropped at first to allow her to reach. She stole second with two down and scored easily on senior third baseman Evan Childs’ double to left.
Freshman pitcher Katelynn Howser (6-1) took the loss, giving up two earned runs on five hits and two walks in six-plus innings. She struck out five. Kiana Quolas (8-1) got the win, giving up one unearned run on four hits and a walk. She fanned three.
Garcia singled in the seventh to continue her hitting streak to 20 games, while senior Lauren Lackey and freshman Lacey Rother both added hits.
