WPCNR PRESSBOX. Special to WPCNR From Kristen Zimmerman. June 23, 2004: Left fielder Ashley Moore scored from second on a line drive off the bat of catcher Jessica Allister that tipped of Lauren Bauer’s glove in left field for an error in the 12th inning, giving New England (7-11) a 1-0 win over the NY/NJ Juggernaut (11-7) Tuesday night.
This was the second consecutive extra-inning contest between the two teams and the third of the season. The Nauts won Monday’s contest in 27 innings, 3-2, and also posted an identical victory in a 16-inning triumph on June 2.
Riptide starter Jocelyn Forest (4-5) kept the Nauts scoreless for 12 innings, striking out 15 and allowing six hits. Juggernaut starter Gina Oaks (4-3) took the loss despite pitching 12 innings, giving up just one unearned run on four hits and two walks, while striking out 11.
The Nauts had plenty of chances to score, but failed to capitalize. Second baseman Carri Leto drew a leadoff walk in the first and advanced to second on a sacrifice by Oaks. Leto went to third as the Riptide left third base uncovered. But Leto would be stranded there as Forest retired the next two hitters to end the threat. Leto went 2-for-5 on the night.
Right fielder Lisa Iancin then led off the second inning with a double to the right field fence, but would again fail to score as Forest retired the next hitters. Iancin finished the game going 2-for-4.
The Nauts also had bases-loaded in the fourth with two outs but Moore’s over the shoulder catch on centerfielder Venus Taylor’s line drive kept NY/NJ from scoring.
The Nauts now take to the road for an 11 day road trip with stops in New England, Akron, and California.
The next homestand at Montclair State University Softball Stadium opens up July 5, 6, and 7 when the Nauts take on the first place Texas Thunder. On July 9, 10, and 11, the Arizona Heat comes on in.
Upcoming Games:
June 23-25 at NE Riptide (away), Lowell, Massachussetts 7:05
The National Pro Fastpitch Standings June 23, 2004 W L Games Behind
Texas Thunder 12 6 --------
Akron Racers 10 6 1
NY/NJ Juggernaut 11 7 1
Arizona Heat 7 10 4-1/2
New England Riptide 7 11 5
California Sunbirds 5 12 6-1/2
