Diamonds split doubleheader
August 14, 2010 - National Pro Fastpitch (NPF)
NPF Diamonds News Release
NASHVILLE, Tenn.- It was truly a case of feast and famine for the Tennessee Diamonds.
After beating the Akron Racers 13-3 in game one of a doubleheader they fell 1-0 in the nightcap Saturday night in front of 584 fans at Draper Diamond on the Lipscomb University campus. The Diamonds head into Sunday's series finale at 2 with a 3-1 series lead. It is also the final home game of the season for the Diamonds.
"Every game stands on its own," Diamonds coach Ernie Reynolds said. "Every game has its own personality."
In game one the Diamonds continued their offensive onslaught with 12 hits.
Shortstop Chelsea Spencer led the way for the Diamonds in game one with three hits, including a towering two-run homer that cleared the left field bleachers, and two singles, one driving in two runs and another bringing home one.
"Chelsea is so charismatic on the field and at bat,' Reynolds said. "It never surprises me when pulls a highlight reel sort of defensive play or has an explosive at bat. Her home run was the back breaker in the game."
Dede Justice slammed a two-run blast over the left field fence and added another RBI with a double to left. Shanna Diller also added three runs on a home run to left. She also had a single.
Kristin Erb picked up her second win of the season in nine decisions. In four innings she gave up two hits and no runs. She struck out two and walked one. Samantha Sheeley closed out the game, giving up five hits and three runs. She walked one and struck out one.
"Erb is fearless and has a lot of confidence," Reynolds said. "Our team likes to play behind her.
"Before the first pitch was thrown in 96 to 98 degree heat I asked Kristin to give us five innings. We had the luxury of being able to make a decision to take her out earlier. Kristin did everything we asked."
Brittany Weil started the first game for the Racers, but gave up four hits and five runs, none of them earned. She last a third of an inning before being replaced by Taryne Mowatt. In 5.2 innings she scattered eight hits and eight runs, seven earned. She struck out six and walked one.
Akron pitcher Lisa Norris got revenge for a 5-0 loss to Monica
Abbott Thursday night by holding on for the shutout. Abbott allowed only two hits, but one was a solo home run by Courtney Bures in the second inning of game two. The other hit was double by Trena Peel. Abbott, 6-8, struck out nine and walked one.
Norris, 14-4, allowed three hits, all singles. She struck out three and walked three.
"It doesn't surprise me that it was a 1-0 game," Reynolds said. "Monica pitched tough for us in this game just like she has all year. We wish we could do a better job of giving her run support.
"Our hitters and defenders work hard for her. She works hard for them. It's unfortunate we weren't able to punch more hits through for Monica. The game might have gone on until midnight."
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