CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — The third-ranked University of North Georgia softball team used a five-run fifth inning to push past Grand Valley State, 7-3, on Monday in the first NCAA D2 National Championship series game.
The Nighthawks trailed 3-2 after the second inning.
In the fifth inning, UNG (63-7) rallied with two outs. Olivia Sinquefield started the scoring when she singled to shortstop, scoring Madi Perry to tie the game.
Sinquefield's RBI single started the five-run flurry and was floored by a Sydney Blair tried to right field that scored two runs. Buford's Mariah Wicker provided more fireworks with a two-run homer to center field.
UNG's defense held o through the final two innings to get the win.
Game 2 of the best-of-three series is on Wednesday. The first pitch is set for noon. If UNG wins Game 2, they'll be crowned National Champions. If not, Game 3 will be at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
