One of the most successful seasons in Arkansas Tech University softball history ended on Saturday at the NCAA Division II Tournament Central Regional in Edmond, Okla.
The nationally 12th-ranked Golden Suns entered the day needing two wins over nationally No. 1-ranked University of Central Oklahoma to extend their season and advance to the super regional.
Arkansas Tech successfully completed the first step in that process by defeating the Bronchos 4-2 in game one. It was just the second loss in 24 home games for Central Oklahoma this season.
Gaby Vasquez contributed two runs batted in during the Suns’ victory, while Sydnie Henson and Tymber Riley had one RBI apiece.
Tech’s Kristen Dempsey (17-4) was the winning pitcher in game one. She allowed two runs on four hits over four and two-thirds innings.
Bailey Shaffer recorded one out in relief for the Golden Suns and Megan Goodnight pitched the final two innings for her third save of 2019.
Central Oklahoma responded by winning the “if necessary” game 12-0. The Bronchos rapped out 17 base hits and ended the game after five innings due to the mercy rule.
UCO (48-6) advanced to host Augustana University in the NCAA Division II Tournament Super Regionals.
Arkansas Tech completed its season 47-15 overall and Great American Conference Tournament champion under the direction of head coach Kristina McSweeney. The 47 wins are second-most in a single season in Golden Suns’ softball history.
