Lady'Backs Take Series in Run-Rule

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Arkansas softball team won its first Southeastern Conference series of the season with a 9-0 run-rule over Mississippi in five innings, Wednesday, March 22 in Oxford, Miss.

The Lady Razorbacks (15-14, 4-5) recorded their first run-rule of the year along with a season-high nine runs as the team bounced back after losing to Ole Miss (12-22, 1-8) in the first game of the series.

Arkansas softball head coach Jamie Pinkerton said he was delighted with the Lady’Backs performance as they controlled the game from the beginning to the end.

“I was real happy with how we came out and set the tone,” he said. “It was a complete team effort and everyone contributed. We haven’t had that yet this season.”

The Lady’Backs offense was sparked in the second inning when they scored four runs on four hits. Sophomore designated player Samantha Buckner, freshman infielder Kayla Johnson, freshman outfielder Jocelyne Moncrief and senior outfielder Mindy O’Malley recorded hits in the rally. O’Malley’s three-RBI double highlighted the inning.

In the third inning, Arkansas continued its offensive production with five runs on only one hit and two Rebel errors. The Lady’Backs also took advantage of three walks. O’Malley led the Lady’Backs as she went 2-for-4 at the plate with five RBIs.

Pinkerton said he was pleased with how the Lady’Back offense continued its output from the nightcap in Tuesday’s doubleheader.

“Mindy O’Malley took the momentum from Tuesday’s seventh inning and carried it over with five RBIs from the leadoff spot, which is huge. I was real pleased with her effort.”

Sophomore right-hander pitcher Katy Henry (8-5) recorded her second win of the series after giving up only four hits in the shutout.

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