March 1, 2008

Box Score

FULLERTON, Calif. - Despite erasing a three-run deficit, Loyola University Chicago (2-4) dropped a heartbreaking, 4-3 decision in eight innings to Texas Tech this morning at the Worth Invitational hosted by Cal State Fullerton. The Ramblers, who pounded out 11 hits, wasted a 4-for-4 effort by sophomore outfielder Ellen Kresl.

After playing four scoreless innings, the Red Raiders drew first blood by plating three runs in the top of the fifth inning, with the big blow coming on a two-run single by Montana Patin. That three-run lead would be short-lived however, as Loyola regained momentum in the bottom of the inning. Angie Funston laced a run-scoring double to get the Ramblers on the board and Kresl later delivered an RBI single to bring Loyola within a run.

Loyola capped the comeback in the bottom of the sixth inning when Nora Schober's RBI fielder's choice scored Katie Duffy, who had led off the frame with a single. The Ramblers had a golden scoring opportunity snuffed out in the bottom of the seventh when Tech threw out a runner trying to score at the plate to send the game to extra innings.

Playing with the international tie-breaker rules in the eighth, Texas Tech took the lead on Robyn Wike's RBI single, then slammed the door on a Loyola rally in the bottom of the inning to preserve the victory and avenge last month's 3-2 victory by Loyola in Las Vegas.

Kresl went 4 for 4 to lead the Loyola offense, while Kat Krause and Duffy each went 2 for 3.

Loyola continues play at the Worth Invitational when it faces Oregon State this afternoon.