KOKOMO, Ind. — Transylvania University softball opened postseason play with a 4-3 victory over Manchester University Thursday afternoon in the HCAC Tournament at Kokomo High School.
The Pioneers improved to 32-9 overall and 13-5 in HCAC play with the win, while Manchester closed its season at 15-23 overall and 7-11 in conference action.
Manchester struck first with two runs in the top of the opening inning, but Transylvania answered in the second. Kailey Goetz doubled and later scored on a sacrifice fly from Taylor Ingram to cut the deficit to 2-1.
The Pioneers took the lead in the fourth inning when Anna Russelburg reached on an error before Goetz launched a two-run home run to center field for a 3-2 advantage.
Manchester tied the game in the fifth inning, but Transylvania responded in the sixth. Goetz doubled to begin the inning and pinch runner Brie Pelland eventually scored on an RBI double by Makena Francis to give the Pioneers the go-ahead run.
Trinity Bridges shut the door in the circle, tossing two scoreless innings in relief to earn the win. Bridges allowed just one hit and struck out one batter. Raegan Gibson started the game and allowed three runs over five innings.
Goetz paced the Transylvania offense by going 3-for-3 with two doubles, a home run and two RBIs. Francis added a pinch-hit RBI double, while Ingram drove in a run and Ella Steczynski recorded a double and stolen base.
Transylvania will take on #2 Mount St. Joseph at 5:30 p.m.
Transylvania University is a proud member of the NCAA Division III and the HCAC. To keep up to date with all of the Transylvania Athletics, check out our website at transysports.com and follow @TransySports on Instagram.
