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University of South Carolina Sumter

USC Sumter Storms Back to Defeat Southern Illinois, 9-4

USC Sumter Storms Back to Defeat Southern Illinois, 9-4
Box Score
March 12, 2026

MYRTLE BEACH, SC -  USC Sumter softball battled back from an early deficit to secure a 9-4 victory over Southern Illinois on 3/9/2026, overcoming a four-run hole with a strong offensive response and a complete-game effort in the circle. 

USC SUMTER 9, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS 4

Southern Illinois jumped out to an early lead in the top of the first inning, capitalizing on a USC Sumter error before adding runs on a double and a single to take a 4–0 advantage.

USC Sumter answered immediately in the bottom of the first inning to even the score. Tatum Swearingen drew a walk, Emma Gaulden followed with a single, and the Fire Ants took advantage of a Southern Illinois error to plate multiple runs and tie the game.

The Fire Ants took control in the third inning, scoring four runs to grab a 7–4 lead. Emma Gaulden sparked the rally with a triple down the left-field line to drive in a run. Kaitlyn Anderson added another run with a fielder's choice, and Eliya Hagan followed with an RBI double to extend the lead.

USC Sumter's offense was powered by the bottom of the lineup, as Kaitlyn Anderson, Valeria Velez, and Eliya Hagan combined for four of the team's eight hits while scoring three runs and driving in two.

Abigail McManus delivered a strong performance in the circle, earning the win after pitching a complete game. The right-hander allowed four hits and four runs (one earned) across seven innings while striking out four and walking one.

Emma Gaulden led the Fire Ants offensively with two RBIs and finished 2-for-3 at the plate.Emma Gaulden and Eliya Hagan each recorded two hits in the victory.

USC Sumter also showed patience at the plate, drawing five walks on the day. Tatum Swearingen and Sienna Levy each earned two free passes to help keep offensive pressure on Southern Illinois. Defensively, the Fire Ants turned one double play in the game.

Southern Illinois recorded hits from four different players, while two players drove in a run. The Salukis also turned one double play defensively.

With the win, USC Sumter showcased its resilience, using timely hitting, disciplined at-bats, and a complete-game pitching performance to rally past Southern Illinois.