Weather leaves Huskies unfazed in victory over Bulldogs

Saturday, February 9

Miami, Fla.

10:00 am

University of Connecticut

3-0

Bryant University

0-3

UConn

Bryant

Bates and Kerns celebration at home plate 2019

Photo by: Eric Espada

2/9/2019 9:01:00 PM | Softball

Box Score

MIAMI, Fla.—On Day Two of the Florida International Softball Tournament, UConn endured a pair of rain delays to nab the win over Bryant 3-0. While the 2019 season is still in its infancy, the Huskies are now 3-0, a streak not seen since the 2007 season.

This rematch against the Bryant Bulldogs was impressive defensive battle on both sides. The teams went three up and three down through several innings before UConn broke the seal. The Huskies heated up in the top of the fourth when Briana Marcelino got the offense rolling with a single to third base. Kelli Bates reached on a fielder's choice and with Marcelino out at second, Bates would steal back its occupancy for UConn a play later. Her quick wits carried her to third base on a passed ball, putting the Huskies in prime scoring position with power hitter Carli Cutler at the plate. The Bulldogs remembered number thirteen's success behind the plate in their first game, only a day ago, so Cutler was walked to first base.

Chloe Kerns was due up next for UConn and made the best out of her at-bat. Kerns' two RBI double, would round Cutler and Bates for the first runs of the game. With speedy Ashley Esty in to pinch run for Kerns, head coach Jen McIntyre and the rest of the coaching staff were looking to make the most out of this opportunity. Reese Guevarra grounded out to the pitcher but not before Esty could take hold of third base. Kiwi McDaniel's clutch single into center field would score Esty for the Huskies' third and final run of the game.

Starting and winning pitcher Marybeth Olson, went the length tossing 11 strikeouts and only allowing three hits. Through 24 at-bats, Olson faced every batter sent at her to gain her first 2019 victory.

The UConn defense stood strong in support of Olson on the mound, scooping up the potential scoring hits by Bryant, before they could convert. The Huskies played an excellent and efficient brand of defense going errorless for the duration of the game. Offensively, UConn's burst in the fourth and five total hits, caused some miscues leading to a pair of Bryant errors down the stretch.

After two victories over the Bulldogs, the Huskies hold the series at 13-1.

The Huskies were scheduled to take on host FIU with first pitch at 7:15 p.m. However, the weather led to rain delays causing the tournament to get behind schedule. The teams will faceoff on the final day of the tournament tomorrow, Sunday, Feb. 10th. at 1:30 p.m. as scheduled.