May 19, 2007

Seventh-inning rally gives Vanguard University a 5-4 victory over Lee University at 2007 NAIA Softball National Champion

DECATUR, Ala. -  Vanguard University scored four times in the bottom of the seventh inning to rally for a 5-4 come-from-behind victory over Lee University in the final Pool B contest Friday (May 18) evening at the 2007 NAIA Softball National Championship being played at Wilson Morgan Park.

The eighth-ranked Lions improved to 41-14 overall and 1-1 in pool play while the Flames fell to 42-15 and 0-2. Both teams return to play Saturday (May 19). Vanguard takes on Columbia (Mo.) College at noon while Lee takes on Oklahoma City University at 2:30 p.m.

With Lee out in front 4-1 entering the bottom of the seventh, the Lions scored four unearned runs off reliever Sara Mitchell. Vanguard scored its first run on a fielder's choice by Noelle Navarette before Sarah Howe, who went 2-for-4, cleared the bases with her single to left-center field.

JaAndrea Hinton and Bobbi Easler each had two hits for Lee. Reliever Jennifer Olvera (7-5) picked up the victory.