HARTSVILLE, S.C. – Anderson University softball (26-18, 10-12 SAC) found their hitting sticks, defeating South Atlantic Conference opponent Coker (18-20, 4-16 SAC), in game one, 17-6(5), and game two, 10-7, on Saturday afternoon at Saleeby-Stokes Field.
In game one, Anderson jumped out to a 2-0 lead after senior Kayson Boatner's 16th home run of the season scoring senior Morgan Charter who reach on a walk. Boatner needed one RBI to become the SAC's All-Time career RBI leader (234).
Coker answered right back in the bottom half of the inning with a two-run home run to tie the game at two apiece. However, the Trojans exploded for 13 runs in the top of the third on 10 hits and two errors in the frame, including home runs by senior Yas Laureano, sophomore Madison Carpenter and Boatner's second of the game.
The Cobras were able to cut into the lead, scoring two runs in the bottom half. AU got those two runs right back in the top of the fourth inning. Anderson was able to hold the Cobras to run-rule Coker,17-6, in five inning of play.
Freshman Carson Hobbs (11-7) gave up six hits, while striking out six batters to pick up the win.
In game two, the Trojans fell behind 4-0 before scoring four runs in the top of the fourth to gain new life in the game. Coker scored two runs in the bottom half to claim the, 6-4, lead after four innings of play, tacking on a solo run in the fifth, 7-4.
With perhaps their season postseason on the line, the Black and Gold put together a six-run seventh innings. Senior Oliver Wheeler led off with a walk, followed by a double by junior Ava Worthy. Freshman Shelby Bandt drew a walk with sophomore Maddie Carpenter taking advantage of a golden opportunity, drilling a 3-run shot to put the Trojans ahead, 8-7. Anderson was able to tack on two more runs to set the eventual final score at, 10-7.
Hobbs got the nod in game two, pitching two innings. Hobbs gave up five hits and three runs before being relieved by junior Lane Edgington (10-9) giving up five hits, four runs and struck out five.
On the day, Carpenter went 5-for-9 with two home runs, a double and seven RBI, while Boatner went 4-for-5 with two home runs, a triple and six RBI.
Anderson returns to action when it welcomes Carson-Newman on Thursday for Senior Day. First-pitch is slated for 12:30pm.
