Johnson Records Two Hits Lady'Backs Fall

FAYETTEVILLE – Freshman designated player Kayla Johnson tallied two hits as the University of Arkansas softball team fell to No. 5 Tennessee, 6-0, Sunday, April 2.

Johnson was 2-for-3 for the Lady Razorbacks (16-21, 5-10) who recorded four hits against the Lady Vols (33-4, 8-4) and junior all-American pitcher Monica Abbott (23-3). Tennessee is the only Southeastern Conference opponent to sweep the Lady’Backs this season.

Arkansas head coach Jamie Pinkerton said he was disappointed to give up a big inning but is happy to see the young Lady’Backs producing for the offense.

“They are the No. 5 team in the country and we can’t have a bad inning,” he said. “I feel the freshmen are starting to hit the ball.”

Tennessee broke the scoreless tie in the third inning with two runs on three hits and an Arkansas error. The Lady Vols increased their lead, 3-0, in the top of the sixth before adding three more in the seventh.

Offensively, senior outfielder Mindy O’Malley and freshman outfielder Jocelyne Moncrief contributed a pair of leadoff singles for the Lady’Backs in the first and sixth inning, respectively.

Sophomore Katy Henry (9-9) recorded the loss after throwing six and two-thirds innings. Senior Blaire Perry finished the game in the circle.

For more information on Arkansas softball, log to LADYBACKS.COM.