Eastern Kentucky secured a dramatic 9-8 win over Central Arkansas on April 18, coming from behind in the seventh inning during a rain-soaked softball game.
The game was significant as both teams were competing for the top spot in the ASUN Gold Division. The Colonels’ victory keeps them ahead in their division and adds to their season record of 24 wins and 19 losses, with an 11-4 mark in conference play.
Eastern Kentucky used three pitchers throughout the contest. Victoria Byrum recorded seven strikeouts and kept her team within reach, while Tayteum Vigansky earned her eighth win of the season by closing out the sixth inning and shutting down Central Arkansas in the seventh. At bat, Jocelyn Owen hit her first career home run—a grand slam—that helped give Eastern Kentucky a temporary lead earlier in the game.
The Colonels scored first but fell behind after Central Arkansas responded with three runs, including a two-run home run. Owen’s grand slam put Eastern Kentucky back on top at 5-3. The Bears later rallied with five runs in the sixth inning to take an 8-6 lead heading into the final frame.
In heavy rain at Gertrude Hood Field, Eastern Kentucky mounted its comeback. Walks, fielding errors by Central Arkansas, and disciplined plate appearances allowed runners to advance. Reese Knox drew a bases-loaded walk to tie it at eight before Emily Mariscal scored on a wild pitch for the winning run.
The series will conclude Sunday with a doubleheader starting at 10 a.m., including Senior Day ceremonies before game two.
