Force knocks off Glory

Published on July 25, 2008 under National Pro Fastpitch (NPF)
Philadelphia Force News Release


Chantilly, VA- After three scoreless innings, the Philadelphia Force (21-12) offense broke open to beat the Washington Glory 6-3 in game one of a four game series.

Chelsea Spencer began the surge for the Force in the top of the fourth inning with a two-out solo home run to put the Force ahead 1-0.

The Force answered again in the top of the fifth with three more runs. With one out, Kristen Miller started the rally with a walk. Michelle Tatlock entered the game to run for Miller before Trena Peel hit a two-run blast to right field.

With a 3-0 lead, the Force continued to put runs on the board. Clare Burnum singled and quickly advanced to second on fielder's choice that also allowed Sharonda McDonald to reach first. An error allowed both runners to advance a base, putting Burnum on third and McDonald on second. The Glory almost stopped the threat as they caught Burnum in a run down as she tried to score from home. However, McDonald added the last run of the inning as she scored on a fielder's choice.

However, the Glory (21-12) did not quit. In the top of the sixth inning, Washington rallied for three runs to make the score 4-3. LaDonia Hughes started off the inning with a single to left field. Two batters later, Amber Jackson walked to set the stage for Catalina Morris. Morris put the Glory on the board and back in the game with one swing as she hit a three-run home run off of winning pitcher Katie Burkhart.

The Force responded in the top of the seventh as they were granted five consecutive free bases. Miller, Peel, and Burnum were all walked to start off the inning. Megan Gibson, who entered the game to pinch hit for McDonald was hit by a pitch, forcing Miller home to make the score 5-3. Kellie Wilkerson followed with a walk which plated Peel, making what would eventually be the 6-3 final score.

Burkhart went all seven innings for the Force. The lefty pitcher gave up six hits and struck out seven.

Sarah Pauly took the loss for the Glory. In 5.1 innings pitched, Pauly gave up four hits and three earned runs.

Trena Peel highlighted the Force offense with two hits, two RBIs, and two runs scored.

The Force and the Glory will be back in action tomorrow to play the second of four games. Game time is set at 7:05 at the Westfield Sports Complex.

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National Pro Fastpitch Stories from July 25, 2008


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