Tide’s First Series Tie with Virginia Tech in Program History

Alabama took on another top 25 team over the weekend. The Tide split the series with Virginia Tech, securing their first-ever victory against Alabama on Saturday. Before the series, Alabama was ranked 15, while Virginia ranked 12. The opening day of the series witnessed a fiercely contested match, resulting in a narrow 1-0 win for the Tide. The game highlighted an impressive pitchers-duel and a stellar outing in the circle from Kayla Beaver.

Alabama entered the fifth inning without a single base runner and the score remained tied at zero. However, Bailey Dowling's perseverance during a lengthy at-bat paid off as she managed to draw a walk. This opened the door for the Tide to turn the game in their favor. Kinley Pate was brought in as a pinch runner for Dowling and successfully stole second base. It was Kendal Clark who ultimately sealed the victory for Alabama with a well-timed hit up the middle, allowing the runner from second to score and securing the game-winning RBI.

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The Tide secured their sixth impressive victory this month, while Beaver showcased her pitching prowess with a fourth complete-game shutout. The second day of the series mirrored the first in many ways. The game remained without a score until the fourth inning, witnessing a fierce battle between pitchers from both teams. Notably, there were multiple triples, home runs, and even an infield change for Virginia. It seemed like every possible event unfolded during this intense matchup.

Virginia took an early lead in the fourth inning with a two-run homer, putting them on the scoreboard. However, Jocelyn Briski's strikeout kept the Tide's hopes alive. Kenleigh Cahalan then stepped up for the Tide and delivered a much-needed hit, sending the ball to the fences and landing at third base with her impressive speed.

As the game entered the seventh inning, it was the Tide's final chance to turn things around after trailing since the fifth. Kendal Clark led off the inning, setting the tone for Alabama. Lauren Esman followed with a single, bringing Clark home and giving Alabama its first run of the day. Jenna Johnson was then walked, and Cahalan sealed the deal with a triple, tying the game 3-3 and forcing an extra inning.

In the top of the eighth, Virginia Tech responded with an impressive five runs, extending their lead to 8-3. Unfortunately, Alabama was unable to respond in the bottom of the eighth, resulting in their first ever loss to the Hokies.