The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
University of Texas
Nebraska
Squeeze play lifts Nebraska past No. 20 Softball, 2-1
04.10.2009 | Softball
April 10, 2009
LINCOLN, Neb. -- The No. 20 Texas Softball team dropped its second straight one-run decision as it fell to Nebraska, 3-2, Friday evening at Bowlin Stadium. The Longhorns' loss dropped UT to 31-13 on the year and 7-3 in Big 12 play, while the Huskers improved to 27-11 and 3-5 in league action.
Texas sophomore starter Brittany Barnhill (19-8) was saddled with the loss after throwing a complete game, scattering seven hits, allowing just two runs, walking three and striking out three. Nebraska righthander Molly Hill (17-7) earned the win for the Cornhuskers after firing a complete game, six-hitter, surrendering one run and fanning five.
The Huskers grabbed a 2-1 lead in the fifth, using a leadoff walk by second baseman Julie Brecthel and a single by designated player Kelli Linke to start the rally. A sacrifice bunt advanced both runners into scoring position before a squeeze bunt by first baseman Crystal Carwile scored Brecthel and gave Nebraska a one-run edge.
Texas grabbed a 1-0 edge in the third when senior first baseman Desiree Williams led off the frame with a double to right centerfield and came around to score on an RBI double by freshman shortstop Lexy Bennett. The Longhorns added a single and a hit-by-pitch to load the bases, but stranded all three runners.
Nebraska knotted the game at one in the bottom of the third, courtesy of a leadoff double by third baseman Jamie Gay and a UT error that allowed Gay to come home.
Williams headlined the Texas offense on the day with two hits and one run scored, while Bennett notched UT's lone RBI.
Texas returns to action on Saturday, April 11 when it finishes its two-game set with Nebraska. First pitch is set for 11 a.m. Central.
