softball
OU softball: Sooners fall to 17-1 after shutout loss against Nebraska
Sophomore Lauren Chamberlain watches the ball as it flys deep into the outfield at the Bedlam game on April 25, 2012. Chamberlain hit two home runs, which helped the Sooners stay in the lead.
The No. 1 Oklahoma softball team dropped its first game of the season, 1-0, to No. 25 Nebraska on Saturday.
A home run by junior Tatum Edwards in the fifth inning propelled the Cornhuskers (12-5) to a victory over the top-ranked Sooners. OU (17-1) was unable to generate any offense to back up the strong pitching of senior Michelle Gascoigne.
Key Stat: 0 – After scoring 10 runs in game one of this double-header, OU was unable to cross home in the evening game. The Sooners left too many runners stranded and failed to capitalize on a number of opportunities. One run was all Nebraska needed to earn the victory.
Key Player: Michelle Gascoigne – The senior pitcher was effective Saturday in working through the Husker lineup. Gascoigne put forth an extraordinary start despite the unordinary lack of run support. She allowed just two hits, including one that cleared the fence and proved to be the game-winner. Gascoigne struck out seven Nebraska hitters in the complete-game effort.
What it means: OU lost its first game of the season after a 17-0 start. The loss would sting less if it were not the first of a season that has been filled with early dominance. Oklahoma’s pitching duo of seniors Keilani Ricketts and Jessica Shults continues to impress and overwhelm opponents.
What’s next for the Sooners: Oklahoma will play the final game of the Spring Preview Tournament at noon Sunday at Marita Hynes Field. OU will face the Houston Cougars — a team the Sooners defeated, 6-0, Friday.
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