Davis’ pinch-hit RBI helps Point advance in AAC tournament

KINGSPORT, Tenn. (April 27, 2022) – After trailing 1-0 for the first five innings, the Point University softball team strung together four hits and scored two runs in the bottom of the sixth to defeat Milligan University 2-1 Wednesday afternoon and advance to day four of the Appalachian Athletic Conference tournament.

With Wednesday's win, the Skyhawks set a new school record for most wins in a single season with 32. Point is now 32-19. The Skyhawks eliminated Milligan, who finished the season 23-15.

The Buffaloes got on the board in the top of the first with an RBI groundout. Milligan kept Point off the board until Asia Jones sparked a four-hit rally in the sixth inning, producing two runs for the Skyhawks. Jones led off with an infield single and was followed by a single through the left side by Gabrielle Riley. With runners on first and second, an error would allow Taylor Knight to reach base and load the bases.

After a fielder's choice allowed Meagan Pildner to reach base, Chelsea Parker followed with an RBI single through the right side, scoring Riley to tie the game 1-1. Allie Davis then pinch-hit for Alexus Griffin and singled up the middle, scoring McKensie Barnes, who pinch-ran for Knight.

Leading 2-1, the Skyhawks were able to get the Buffaloes out in order in the top of the seventh, with three straight groundouts.

Point combined for seven hits and was led by Brianna Plocharczyk, who went 2-for-3. Davis, Parker, Knight, Riley and Jones each recorded a hit, with Parker and Davis each accounting for an RBI.

Point's defense limited Milligan to only three hits, which came in the first two innings. Mary Michael Burnham got the start, going two innings, giving up three hits and one run (earned). Katelyn Jiles came in for relief, going five innings, giving up no hits or runs and striking out two. Jiles earned the win and advanced her record to 13-3.

Up next, Point will continue to battle their way through the elimination bracket as they face the loser between Truett McConnell and Bryan tomorrow at 11 a.m. in Kingsport, Tenn.