Burkhart out pitches Forest to lead the Force to a sweep in New England

June 21, 2008 - National Pro Fastpitch (NPF)
Philadelphia Force News Release


Lowell, Mass. - Philadelphia improves on the season to 10-2 overall in the NPF. Katie Burkhart leads the Force to their fourth consecutive win against their rival 2-1. The New England Riptide were looking to salvage one game in their series with the Philadelphia Force at Martin Softball Field tonight. The pitchers were bothCollege World Series MVPs, Katie Burkhart for the Force (2008) and Jocelyn Forest for the Riptide (2002). In a pitchers' duel worthy of two fine pitchers the Force prevailed by a score of 2-1.

The Riptide took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the third starting with Germaine Fairchild being hit with a pitch. Fairchild was making her first start at first base this year replacing the injured Lyndsey Angus. Carrie Embree sacrificed her to second and Carri Martin doubled into the right field corner to score Fairchild.

The Force took a 2-1 lead in the sixth. Kellie Wilkerson led off with a walk and was pinch run for by Michelle Tatlock. Jenna Hall almost gave the Force the lead right there except for Gina Carbonatto's over the fence catch. Tatlock was able to advance to second and scored on a Chelsea Spencer single. Spencer went to second on the throw from center and scored on Megan Gibson's single to give the Force the lead.

New England threatened in the 7th with two of Burkhart's three hits were given up this inning. However, the game changer was highlight by Trena Peel by making a game saving diving catch in Right Center Field. Philadelphia Force opens up a series with Chinese-Taipei on Thursday night at 7:05pm. This will be the last time the Force will play international competition this year. Bring your gas receipts for that specific game day and you will get a free upgrade to the VIP section.



National Pro Fastpitch Stories from June 21, 2008


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