ATLANTA — Georgia State softball erupted for a four-run third inning and slammed the door with a late surge to roll past Coastal Carolina 7-1 on Saturday afternoon at Bob Heck Softball Complex.
Makayla Stephens earned the win for Georgia State, tossing a complete game. The right-hander allowed just one run on four hits, did not issue a walk and struck out seven.
At the plate, the Panthers were led by Chloe Hatcher, who went 2-for-3 with a home run, a walk and three RBIs. Caitlyn Hall added two RBIs, going 1-for-3, while Zoey Defoor chipped in a hit, an RBI, a walk and two stolen bases. Maya Bagsby also reached base four times with three walks and scored twice.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Trailing 1-0 in the third inning, the Panthers responded with a four-run frame to take control. A wild pitch allowed the tying run to score before RBI hits from Zoey Defoor and Caitlyn Hall highlighted the surge, giving Georgia State a 4-1 lead.
Georgia State kept Coastal Carolina off the board the rest of the way behind Stephens' steady presence in the circle.
The Panthers added to their lead in the sixth inning when Chloe Hatcher launched a three-run home run, scoring McKenzie Walker and Maya Bagsby to extend the advantage to 7-1. Georgia State held firm from there to secure the win.
GAME NOTES
» Stephens struck out seven Chanticleers and did not issue a walk in a complete-game effort.
» Georgia State's highest scoring inning was the third, when it pushed four runs across.
» The Panthers out-hit the Chanticleers, 7-4.
» Defoor stole two bases in Saturday's game.
» Georgia State went 4-for-13 (.308) with runners in scoring position.
» Makayla Stephens held Coastal Carolina to 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position.
» Makayla Stephens faced 26 hitters, recording 13 flyouts and seven strikeouts.
» The Panthers drew seven walks from Coastal Carolina pitching.
» Hatcher led the Panthers at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a home run and three RBIs.
ON DECK
Georgia State head back on the road for a midweek doubleheader at Western Carolina on Tuesday, April 7. First pitch is set for 3 p.m., with game two to follow at 5 p.m. in Cullowhee, N.C.
