INDIANA, Pa. – The IUP softball team made the most of its second chance on Wednesday, scoring four runs over the final two innings for a dramatic 9-8 walk-off victory against California (Pa.) on Wednesday at Podbielski Field.
 
The game was called in late March due to rain and darkness with California (20-18, 18-2) leading 8-5 going into the top of the fifth. Nearly one month later, IUP (26-22, 12-6) rallied for an important victory in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Western division.
 
Jordan Sylvia delivered the walk-off single in the seventh for the 100th RBI of her collegiate career, scoring Paige Truax for a dramatic divisional win. The duo of Sylvia and Truax posted a pair of hits each, combining for three RBI.
 
While the start of the halted game was delayed, the Crimson Hawks used the extra down time to their advantage. Sporting a carefree yet determined approach, IUP took advantage of some Cal miscues on the way to a 12th win in conference play.
 
The Hawks are now one game from the fifth and final playoff spot in the PSAC West with four contests remaining. Madison Pikula officially set the IUP single season hits record to lead off the seventh inning, legging out an infield single before moving into scoring position on a fielding error.
 
With three hits on the day, Pikula set the single season record with her 68th knock of the campaign, surpassing Megan McCormick (67 hits; 2010). IUP posted a pair of runs each in the sixth and seventh innings, aided by two costly Vulcan errors down the stretch.
 
Brianna Pusateri led off the sixth inning with her first collegiate triple, smacking a ball down the alley in right center. Truax singled Pusateri home in IUP's next trip to the plate. Truax later scored on a misplayed ball at first after Maddie Griffin hustled down the line.
 
Pikula led off the seventh with the record-breaking hit, diving head first to beat out the throw before alertly moving to second after the ball squirted away. Pikula advanced to third on a groundout from Pusateri before scoring the game-tying run.
 
Truax, who moved to third on an arrant throw on a stolen base, cruised home on Sylvia's walk-off single. Kendall Young was efficient as the third IUP pitcher in the game, starting in the top half of the fifth. She stifled the Vulcans, not allowing a hit over the final three innings while securing her 12th win of the season.
 
 Up Next
IUP hosts Pitt-Johnstown for Alumni/Senior Day on Friday, April 26 at Podbielski Field.
 
IUP will recognize senior Amanda Fischer between games with an on-field ceremony.
 
Follow
For coverage of the IUP softball program, follow the Crimson Hawks on X (Twitter) and Instagram @IUPsoftball and online at IUPathletics.com. 
 

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