COLUMBUS, Ga. — Top-ranked Washington turned back the fifth-ranked LSU softball team, 3-0, Sunday morning in the semifinals of the Gold Bracket in the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Lead-Off Classic at South Commons Complex.
The loss leaves LSU at 16-4 heading into next weekend’s tournament action at the University of Oklahoma.
Washington was able to get on the board first after loading the bases with one out against LSU starter Britni Sneed. Jaime Clark delivered a crushing blow for LSU’s hopes as she doubled driving in two runs.
The Tigers tried to come back in the top of the fourth as with one out, Tara Asbill singled and Ashlee Ducote walked. After Trena Peel struck out, Megann Steege singled to load the bases with two outs. But Washington pitcher Jamie Graves shut the door, striking out Jennifer Schuelke to end the threat.
Washington put the game away in the sixth when a Rosie Leutzinger single plated pinch runner Becky Simpson for a 3-0 lead.
Graves went the distance to get the win, striking out five and allowing just six hits.
Tara Asbill and Shaunte’ Fremin both led LSU with two hits in three at bats.
LINESCORE
LSU 000 000 0 — 0 6 1
Washington 002 001 x — 3 6 0