March 14, 2001
Box Score
CONWAY, S.C.-- The University of Illinois women's softball team was defeated by Virginia, 4-0, in the semifinals of the Spring Chicken Classic. Illinois' overall record is now 15-10.
With one out and the bases loaded in the bottom of the fifth inning, Virginia pitcher Kristen Dennis hit a grand slam to center field to put the Cavaliers in front. Two errors in the infield put runners on the bases for the Cavaliers.
"It was a hard fought game and one that we were in the entire time," said Illinois head coach Terri Sullivan. "It was a game that one team was going to open up for the other and we did that. Our defense has been outstanding this tournament and there were plays we needed to make but didn't."
Despite the loss, Illinois got good performances from both starting pitcher Amanda Fortune and reliever Kathryn Nevard. The Illini allowed only eight hits and kept the Cavaliers from crossing home plate most the afternoon.
The Illini did get in position to score in the top of the third inning. Third baseman Erin Jones opened the inning with a double to left field. However, Dennis was able to retire the next three Illinois batters and preserve a 0-0 game.
"What impressed me was our ability to come back at them after a tough inning," said Coach Sullivan. "We didn't let it affect us and we had some good at bats in the sixth and seventh innings."
The Illini finished the Spring Chicken Classic with a 2-3 record, including a 5-0 victory over Virginia, yesterday afternoon.
"We have been playing good across the board and this tournament was real good for our team," said Coach Sullivan. "We played four real good teams with good athletes, good pitching and good coaches. They have been in the NCAA Regional and are conference winners and we proved we can beat any of them."
The Illini will now travel to Rock Hill, S.C. where they will play in the Winthrop Invitational. Illinois will first face UNC Charlotte on Friday Mar. 16, at 2 p.m.
"It's a great tournament to play in with the amount of teams in it and we're looking forward to going there," said Coach Sullivan. "We have a goal to win another tournament and we have to keep playing our softball. I know we would like to be in the championship game."
