Carbondale Reporter

The Southern Illinois University softball team secured a narrow victory over Missouri State with an 8-7 win in extra innings at Charlotte West Stadium. The game marked the Salukis' seventh consecutive win, improving their record to 12-14 overall and 4-0 in conference play.

Head coach Jen Sewell commented on the team's progress, stating, "This is a game that, in the preseason, we didn't win because we got flustered or got frustrated at the plate or on defense. It's one of those you take it as a win, and tomorrow, the game could be 1-0."

Both teams displayed strong offensive performances. Southern Illinois recorded 16 hits compared to Missouri State's 14. However, SIU committed three errors while Missouri State had just one.

Pitcher McKenzie Newcomb played a crucial role in the victory by pitching for 6.2 innings and allowing six earned runs with eight strikeouts. Freshman Sage Grann was instrumental in clinching the win with her walk-off hit in the eighth inning.

Emma Lee contributed significantly with a grand slam during the second inning. Other players like Emma Austin, Anna Carder, Erin Lee, Addi Baker, Mikaela Coburn, and Amanda Knutson also added multiple hits to secure the win.

The game saw early action when Emily Williams drove home Emma Austin for SIU's first run in the opening inning. A subsequent single by Mikaela Coburn increased their lead to 2-0.

Missouri State responded quickly but fell behind after Lee's grand slam extended SIU's lead to 7-1. Despite Missouri State's efforts to tie the game by scoring six runs across several innings, they were unable to maintain momentum into extra innings.

Newcomb successfully prevented further scoring opportunities from Missouri State in the top of the eighth inning before Grann’s decisive double brought Knutson home for an exciting finish.

Southern Illinois will aim for their eighth straight victory against Missouri State on Wednesday at 4 p.m., continuing their successful streak this season.

Fans can stay updated on team news via social media platforms including Twitter (@SIU_Softball), Facebook (Facebook.com/SalukiSoftball), Instagram (@SIU_Softball), or through downloading their mobile app available on both App Store and Google Play Store.