RUSSIA – Covington fell behind 9-3 against Russia, but was able to regroup over the next four innings to capture a thrilling 12-9 comeback victory on the road.
Yes, the first three innings for the Lady Buccs wasn’t ideal as Russia scored six runs in the first, one in the second and two more in the third to take a 9-3 lead.
There are always a few games where things don’t always go the way teams expect, but fortunately the Lady Buccs didn’t let the tough circumstances affect their mentality throughout the game. That was on display as the Lady Buccs responded in a great fashion over the final four innings by holding Russia scoreless.
The key defensively was the outstanding pitching by Whitney Burns, who entered the game in the fourth inning. Burns, and the defense behind her, held Russia scoreless throughout the final four innings. Burns only allowed three hits and struck out six batters.
The offense then became uncontrollable for Russia as the Lady Buccs scored three runs in the fifth, five in the sixth and one more in the seventh to secure a comeback win.
What started off the momentum was a solo home run in the fifth by Emalyn Johnson. From that point on the Lady Buccs erupted with critical hits and outstanding base running.
One of the most impressive base running performances was by Emalyn Johnson as she drew a walk and stole bases to second and third. When she stole the base to third, a ball was tossed to the outfield and Johnson scored the lone run in the seventh inning.
Throughout the game the Lady Buccs outhit Russia 17 to 10, but both team committed three critical errors.
Emalyn Johnson and Jayda McClure both hit home runs for Covington to push their team total to 35 home runs so far this season. Plus, Karlee Schwartz hit two doubles, while additional doubles were connected by Ava Hartwig, Cassidy Iddings, Kylie Palsgrove, Whitney Burns, Jayda McClure and Emma Ouellette.
The Lady Buccs advanced their overall record to 15-2 and will host another tough non-conference game against New Bremen on Monday.
