Iowa State closed out its second Big 12 series in dominant fashion, securing a 1-0 win over UCF to complete the sweep Sunday.
A first-inning RBI groundout proved to be the difference, as the Cyclones’ pitching staff delivered a shutout performance. With the win, Iowa State improves to 14-14 overall and 4-2 in Big 12 play.
The Cyclones managed just two hits but made the most of their early scoring opportunity. Freshman Sereniti Trice recorded one of the team’s two hits and scored the game’s only run on a first-inning RBI groundout by senior Angelina Allen.
Junior McKenna Andrews collected the other hit, while other Iowa State batters struck out five times and did not draw a walk.
Sophomore Lauren Schurman set the tone in the circle, pitching three scoreless innings while allowing five hits and one walk. Freshman Abby Huhn took over in relief and tossed four shutout innings, allowed two hits, struck out two and issued no walks to earn the win.
The Cyclones committed one error, but it did not lead to any damage as the defense remained steady behind the pitching staff.
Iowa State looks to carry its momentum into its first home Big 12 series of the season against Arizona State, beginning at 4 p.m. Thursday from the Cyclone Sports Complex.
