University of Massachusets Athletics
University of Massachusetts
Youngstown State
Softball Edged by Youngstown State Despite Comeback
February 14, 2016 | Softball
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Caitlin Hickey had her first hit and first RBIs of her career, but it wasn't enough as the University of Massachusetts softball team fell to Youngstown State, 9-8 on Sunday in the Charlotte First Pitch Classic at the Phillips Softball Complex in Charlotte, N.C.
The Minutewomen tied the game in the sixth inning when they brought a 6-2 deficit back with Hickey's double and a two-run single from Kaitlyn Stavinoha. It was Hickey's first hit and RBI of her collegiate career.
Taylor Carbone also had a first for head coach Kristi Stefanoni's team on Sunday. Carbone pitched five innings and struck out three in her first-ever pitching appearance. The senior ran into trouble in the second inning when Sarah Dowd hit a grand slam to give the Penguins and early 5-0 lead.
Meg Colleran came into a tie game in the sixth in relief of Carbone, but allowed three runs -- all unearned -- despite not allowing a hit and picked up the loss.
UMass scored two runs to make it a one-run game in the seventh inning after Jena Cozza tripled to centerfield. Carbone followed with a double to drive in Cozza and then scored when Ashton Wince singled to bring the score to 9-8 in favor of the Penguins. Colleran would walk to bring runners on first and second before Hickey fouled out to end the threat.
Stavinoha, Carbone, Hickey and Wince each had two RBI in the contest, while Stavinoha and Wince each had multi-hit games.
UMass is back in action on Friday, Feb. 19 when they take on Saint Francis and East Carolina in the ECU Pirate Clash in Greenville, N.C.
For continued coverage of UMass softball, follow the team on Twitter (@UMassSoftball), Instagram (@UMassSBall) and on Facebook at facebook.com/UMass-Softball.
