News Summary
The University of Missouri’s softball team fell to UCF in a thrilling extra innings game, ending with a close score of 6-5. Mizzou initially led 5-0, bolstered by Kara Daly’s impressive three-run homer. Despite a strong start, UCF rallied back with five unanswered runs, culminating in a walk-off double by Madison Simon, sealing the victory. This defeat marks a setback for Mizzou as they prepare for their next challenge against Florida State.
Orlando, Florida – In a thrilling matchup that went into extra innings, the University of Missouri softball team, ranked No. 16, lost to the University of Central Florida (UCF) with a final score of 6-5 on February 11, 2025. This defeat brings Mizzou’s season record to 4-2, while UCF improved to 6-1 following the victory at the UCF Softball Complex.
Mizzou started the game on a high note, jumping to an early 5-0 lead in the first inning. The highlight of the inning came from senior Kara Daly, who launched a three-run homer, marking her first home run of the season and the 31st of her career at the university. Daly ended the game with a notable performance of 2-for-4 with three runs batted in (RBI). Following her was leadoff hitter and catcher Julia Crenshaw, who contributed with a 2-for-5 performance, including a run scored, a double, and a stolen base.
Despite Mizzou’s commanding start, UCF fought back with five unanswered runs over the next five innings, ultimately tying the game at 5-5. The momentum shift was palpable, as UCF’s Madison Simon delivered a walk-off double in the eighth inning, scoring the winning run following a walk and a sacrifice bunt. This crucial play sealed the game for UCF.
A significant defensive moment for Mizzou came in the fifth inning when Mya Dodge made a pivotal play by throwing out a runner at home plate after a video review overturned an obstruction call, showcasing the competitive spirit of both teams.
UCF’s offense was led by Stormy Kotzelnick, who recorded a stellar 3-for-3 day at the plate, including two doubles and two RBI, further contributing to their comeback. On the pitching side for Mizzou, starter Cierra Harrison allowed two earned runs over four innings, but the relief efforts from Nathalie Touchet, Marissa McCann, and Taylor Pannell could not prevent the eventual defeat. Pannell, who received the loss, finished her outing with one earned run allowed over 1.1 innings pitched alongside two strikeouts.
In addition to Daly and Crenshaw’s performances, Taylor Ebbs added an RBI and a run for Mizzou, while Abby Hay, Mya Dodge, and Claire Cahalan each chipped in with one hit apiece during the game. Notably, both Hay and Stefania Abruscato extended their on-base streaks to six games, while Cahalan has reached base in five consecutive games, indicating strong offensive consistency from these players.
Looking ahead, Mizzou will face a challenging opponent in the form of No. 8/9 Florida State on February 13, 2025, at 9 a.m. CT. The Tigers will aim to rebound from this tough loss as they prepare for the competitive matchup.
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Additional Resources
- University of Missouri Softball
- Wikipedia: Softball
- UCF Knights Softball
- Google Search: UCF softball
- Iowa State Softball at UCF
- Google Scholar: softball performance
- Orlando Sentinel: UCF Knights
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Softball
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
