UMA Moose Softball Recap: Historic Doubleheader Ends with Thrilling Victory
Auburn, ME – The UMA Moose Softball team made history this past Friday by playing their first doubleheader in the inaugural season, experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the day. After facing a tough 13-0 defeat in game one against the Central Maine Community College (CMCC) Mustangs, the Moose regrouped and showcased their resilience in game two, pulling out a nail-biting 12-11 victory.
Game one was a challenging start for the Moose, as nerves and excitement overwhelmed the players, leading to a tough loss. However, the team quickly refocused and prepared for game two, determined to make a statement.
The Moose struck first in the second game, initiating the scoring in the top of the first inning when Fortin crossed the plate after a passed ball. The momentum continued as Peer, Nile, and McCormick rounded out the inning, giving the Moose an early 4-0 lead.
In the second inning, Linkletter continued the offensive surge with a run scored off an RBI from Fortin, extending the Moose's lead to 5-0. However, the Mustangs weren't ready to back down. They began to chip away at the deficit in the third and fourth innings, with Gallan scoring twice and Green and Ridlon also crossing the plate, bringing the score to 5-4 heading into the fifth inning.
The Moose responded decisively, with Fortin and Linkletter scoring to extend their lead to 8-5. But CMCC fought back once again, with Field and a hard single RBI from Green pushing Anderson across the plate, closing the gap to just one run.
The top of the sixth inning proved to be a pivotal moment for the Moose, as their bats came alive. Linkletter ripped an RBI triple into left field, bringing Kerr home to start the scoring surge. Fortin followed up with a sacrifice RBI that allowed Linkletter to come home. McCormick then singled on a line drive to center fielder Gallan, bringing Peer in for another run. Lunn added to the total with a double, allowing Nile to score. Finally, McCormick scored on a passed ball, giving the Moose a commanding 12-6 lead with only three outs left to secure the win.
Yet, the Mustangs were not ready to concede. They mounted a fierce comeback, scoring five runs in their final at-bat with contributions from Gero, Libby, Gallan, Withee, and Boyton. As the tying run stood at the plate, McCormick remained composed, working a full count before delivering an off-speed pitch that resulted in a crucial 1-3 out, sealing the historic victory for the Moose.
With this thrilling win, the UMA Moose Softball team not only captured their first victory in history but also demonstrated their resilience and determination to bounce back from adversity. The excitement surrounding the team is palpable as they look forward to building on this memorable performance in the upcoming games.