Alabama Softball Advances to Super Regionals

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - In a high-stakes NCAA Regional matchup, No. 15 Alabama showed grit, patience, and timely hitting to edge out Virginia Tech 3-2 and punch a ticket to the Super Regionals for the third consecutive year - and the 19th time in the last 20 postseasons, an NCAA softball record.

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The Crimson Tide wasted no time making noise in the top of the first inning. Leadoff hitter Audrey Vandagriff worked a grueling 10-pitch at-bat into a blistering triple, immediately putting pressure on the Hokies' defense. However, the Hokies held firm, as the next three batters couldn't capitalize and left a runner stranded.

Stepping into the circle for the Crimson Tide was Catelyn Riley, who rested over the weekend, which proved pivotal for Alabama. Riley struck out Cori McMillan, the NCAA home run leader; sharp fielding and another strikeout followed to keep the game locked at 0-0.

From the second through the fourth inning, both teams settled into a classic pitchers' duel. Despite occasional baserunners, neither team could manufacture a run, with defense on both sides making timely plays and pitchers executing with precision.

The Crimson Tide finally turned in the top of the fifth. Salen Hawkins opened the frame with a single, and Brooke Ellestad followed with a perfectly placed bunt that left the Hokies scrambling. Though Mari Hubbard was retired at the plate, Abby Duchscherer's discipline at the plate paid off with a walk that loaded the bases.

Vandagriff once again came through - this time with a walk - to plate the game's first run. Lauren Johnson then hit a crucial ball to left that should have ended the inning, but a miscommunication led to a dropped catch, allowing two more Crimson Tide runners to cross home plate. Alabama surged 3-0 lead. The Hokies couldn't answer in the bottom half, going three up, three down.

The sixth inning passed quietly, but in the seventh, the Hokies gave Crimson Tide fans a scare. Rachel Castine launched a clutch two-run homer that cut the lead to 3-2 and reignited the Hokies' hopes.

With momentum shifting, Alabama brought in Jocelyn Briski to pitch. Her first challenge? McMillan. Under pressure, Briski struck out the home run leader and completed the task at hand to win the game.

With a narrow 3-2 win, Alabama extends its postseason dominance, advancing to Super Regionals once again.

Up next, the Crimson Tide will face No. 2 Oklahoma, the four-time defending National champions. Alabama has reason for confidence - they won two out of three games against the Sooners in their regular season meeting back in April.

Stay tuned for official game times and dates.