Arizona softball beats Arkansas, putting the Razorbacks on the verge of being eliminated from the NCAA Tournament.
FAYETTEVILLE — The No. 12 Arkansas softball team must win three consecutive games to advance from its NCAA Tournament regional.
Arkansas (37-17) lost 2-1 to Arizona in the Fayetteville Regional winners’ bracket on Saturday at Bogle Park, putting them one loss away from elimination.
Arizona advanced to the regional final scheduled for Sunday at 3 p.m. They need one more win in the double-elimination format to reach the super regionals.
“Tight games build confidence due to both the mental and physical challenges,” said Arizona coach Caitlin Lowe. “I was proud of the team’s focus, especially after a crucial home run in the seventh inning. They stayed resilient and competed hard, thriving under pressure.”
Villanova and Southeast Missouri State are set to play an elimination game on Saturday at 5:05 p.m. The winner will face Arkansas at 7 p.m., with the survivor moving on to play Arizona.
Arkansas struggled offensively, managing only two hits off Arizona starter Aissa Silva and one against reliever Brooke Mannon. Rylin Hedgecock hit a solo home run in the seventh inning.
Arizona scored two runs in the first inning, which proved sufficient. Arkansas starter Robyn Herron had command issues, loading the bases with three full-count walks. Arizona capitalized with a sacrifice fly by Olivia DiNardo and an RBI single by Blaise Biringer.
“They seized the moment in the first inning despite not having hits,” said Lowe. “Loading the bases and scoring against a tough pitcher showed their resilience.”
Arkansas left two runners on base in both the third and fourth innings, struggling with timely hitting, going 1 for 8 (.125) with runners on base.
Silva pitched the first 2 1/3 innings before Mannon took over, allowing no hits until Hedgecock’s homer. Silva returned to finish the game.
“We operate as a close-knit pitching staff,” said Silva. “We support each other, and after Mannon’s performance, I knew I had to back her up.”
Hedgecock led Arkansas with two hits, and Bri Ellis added a single in the third inning. The team’s three hits were their fewest since a 6-0 loss to Ole Miss on May 3.
Mannon’s strong relief performance followed a rough outing against Villanova, where she walked three and gave up a hit without recording an out.
“We wanted to give Arkansas’ power hitters a different look today,” said Lowe. “Mannon’s response after yesterday’s game was crucial. She showed confidence and effectiveness against a strong hitting team.”
Arizona left runners stranded at third base in both the fourth and fifth innings, with Bri Ellis making a crucial leaping grab to end the fourth. A double play in the fifth saw Kaiah Altmeyer thrown out at home.
Herron pitched a complete game for Arkansas, allowing 2 runs on 3 hits and 3 walks, with 4 strikeouts. She threw 61 of her 102 pitches for strikes.
This game marked the eighth meeting between Arkansas and Arizona since 2021, with Arizona leading the series 5-3. If Arizona loses on Sunday, it will force a decisive Game 7 in the regional.
