Southeastern Softball wins Southland, going to NCAA Tournament

SLU Softball
Photo credit Southeastern Louisiana University

tLexi Johnson his a walkoff three-run home run to give Southeastern Louisiana University an 8-7 victory over the University of Incarnate Word during Friday's Southland Conference championship game. That win marks Southeastern softball's first conference championship in program history.

Southeastern appeared to be cruising to the conference title midway through the game, holding a 5-0 lead through four innings. However, UIW got hot in the fifth and sixth frames, scoring five runs in those innings to tie the game. In the top of the seventh, the Cardinals took a 7-5 lead when Southland Conference player of the year Victoria Altamirano drove in two runs on a bases-loaded double.

In the bottom of the seventh, Southeastern regained their rhythm. Maria Detillier reached first on a one-out error. Bailey Krolczyk followed-up with a single to give the Lions runners on first and second. Johnson then came to the plate. She swung on a 1-2 pitch, driving the ball deep to centerfield and over the wall to give the Lions their 45th win of the season, a conference championship, and a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

Southeastern will find out in which regional they will play on Sunday. The NCAA Softball Selection Show will take place at 6 p.m. on ESPN 2.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Southeastern Louisiana University