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Kennesaw, Ga. – The Kennesaw State Owls put forth a strong effort in the circle on Thursday evening at Bailey Park, but fell behind in a 4-0 loss to the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs in the series opener.
Emma Friedel delivered an impressive performance, recording 10 strikeouts and tossing six scoreless innings. Despite her dominant effort, the Owls were ultimately edged out by a four-run rally from LA Tech in the sixth inning, leaving the Owls scoreless.
How It Happened
The matchup began as a pitching duel with both teams keeping each other in check. Emma Friedel was dominant early, striking out the side in the second inning and keeping LA Tech off the board through the first five innings.
Kennesaw State's offense had its chances, but were unable to capitalize with runners in scoring position.
In the top of the sixth, the Bulldogs took control with a four-run rally. After placing runners on the corners, the Bulldogs followed with a three-run home run over the left fence that gave a 3-0 lead. The inning was capped by a KSU miscue, allowing an unearned run to score, extending the lead to 4-0.
The Owl's defense continued to shine. In the top of the seventh, Hannah Harvey made a key defensive play, turning a double play to end the inning. With a runner on first, Harvey snagged a hard-hit liner and quickly threw back to first base to retire the runner, completing the double play.
Quick Hits
- Ana Gore ripped a double to push her hitting streak to six consecutive games.
- Hannah Harvey extended her hot streak at the plate, recording a hit in her fifth straight game.
- Emma Friedel was lights out in the circle, tossing six scoreless innings with four no-hit frames and a game-high of 10 strikeouts.
- Friedel has tallied 5+ strikeouts in 7 of her last 10 outings and surpassed 100 strikeouts on the season, now sitting at 134 career Ks.
On Deck
Kennesaw State looks to bounce back in game two of the series against Louisiana Tech, set for Friday, April 18 at 6 p.m. at Bailey Park.
