Entering Wednesday’s game against Pittsburgh, the Kent State softball team had won 10 of their previous 11 games. The Flashes looked to take their momentum on the road when they traveled to face the Panthers for a midweek matchup.

At first glance, the Flashes (23-8) had a great outing at the plate, as they racked up a total of six hits, and outhit their opponent 6-4; however, the team left a total of nine runners on base throughout the game, and were shutout by the Panthers, 1-0.

The team’s ace and reigning MAC East Pitcher of the Week, senior Emma Johnson, had a strong performance. Johnson retired eight of the first 10 batters she faced. 

Johnson finished the game with six strikeouts in six innings of work, but gave up a costly run in the fourth inning.

After Johnson gave up a double in the top of the inning, the Panthers’ Morgan Choe stole third base. Panthers outfielder Carly Thea then belted a single up the left field side to bring in the game’s only run.

Junior first baseman Shelbi Tilton and junior right fielder Michele Duffy both had a pair of singles for the Flashes. The team managed to load the bases twice, once in the fourth inning and then again in the fifth inning, but never capitalized on the opportunities.

Due to the rain, the two teams only played one of two scheduled games.

The Flashes will play host to their bitter in-state rival, University of Akron, for a doubleheader on Friday, at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.  Then, the team will face Ohio University with the first pitches being set for 2 p.m. on Saturday and 1 p.m. on Sunday.

Contact Quentin Smith at [email protected].