As Illinois State head coach
Melinda Fischer predicted prior to the season, offense would be a question mark for the Redbirds. The Birds lived up to that billing Friday tallying just five hits in their opening two games at the Diamond Fun and Sun Classic.
Following a win over Auburn in the opener, the Illinois State softball team fell to tournament host Florida International, 6-0 in the nightcap. The Redbirds drop to 1-1, while FIU moves to 2-1.
Illinois State put two runners on without tallying a hit in the second inning, courtesy of a walk and a batter being hit by a pitch. But a controversial call with two outs prevented the Redbirds from taking an early one-run lead. Dominique Borba attempted to steal third base and reached safely as the catchers throw sailed into left field. But once Borba had crossed the plate and Guilbault had reached third, the home plate umpire called the pitch a dead ball and the runners had to return to their bases. The batter at the plate then ended up popping out to second base.
Florida International took a 1-0 lead the following inning. Left fielder Cassie Parker singled to the pitcher and advanced to second when the throw to first was errant. The ensuing batter singled to center driving in the run. The Golden Panthers then erupted for five runs in the top of the seventh. The runs came on two walks and four singles.
Shannon Nicholson took the loss for the Birds. She allowed five hits and six unearned runs in six and two-thirds innings. She struck out eight and walked three.
Lauren Bierwirth led the Redbirds offensively going two-for-three. Tricia Gaither had the only other ISU hit. Only two Redbirds made it as far as second base.
Saturday, the Redbirds take on Kentucky at 9 a.m. before facing #21 South Florida at 11 a.m. Both games are CST.
Live stats of Diamond Fun and Sun Classic games are available online through the Illinois State softball schedule at www.redbirds.org.
