Indian River Splits with Daytona State

DAYTONA, FL - Indian River jumped out early in game one, but Daytona State rallied late to secure a 3–2 win in a tightly contested matchup.

The River wasted no time getting on the board in the top of the first. Alvey led off the rally with a single, and Gibson followed with an RBI double to bring her home. Later in the inning, Indian River added another run after a defensive error, taking a 2–0 lead.

From there, pitching took over. Wilkinson was strong in the circle early, tossing four scoreless innings while allowing just four hits and striking out four. Daytona State threatened a few times but couldn't capitalize through the first four innings.

The momentum shifted in the fifth when Daytona State strung together three hits, including RBI singles, to plate two runs and tie the game at 2–2. They continued to apply pressure with aggressive baserunning and timely contact.

Indian River had chances to respond, putting runners in scoring position multiple times, but couldn't break through. The River left nine runners on base and were hurt by a couple of double plays in key moments.

In the bottom of the seventh, Daytona State delivered the final blow. After a double and an intentional walk loaded the bases, a walk forced in the go-ahead run, sealing the 3–2 victory in game one.

Indian River responded in game two with a 3–1 win over Daytona State, taking the lead late in extra innings. The game was tied at one in the top of the eighth when Smith tripled, scoring two runs.

Both teams were strong in the circle. Indian River pitchers struck out five, while Daytona State recorded six strikeouts.

Daytona State got on the board in the third inning after Gomez singled to score one run. Indian River answered in the top of the seventh when Abril Gomez singled to center field to tie the game at one.

The River was able to take the lead for the first time that day in the top of the eighth inning, putting together a two-run frame highlighted by Smith's clutch triple to make it 3–1.

Wilkinson earned the win for Indian River. The starter gave up four hits and one run over eight innings, striking out five and walking one.

Gomez and Smith each drove in a run for The River, while Smith led Indian River with three hits in four at-bats. Shields and Alvey each stole multiple bases as The River totaled six stolen bases on the day.

Indian River now looks ahead to a doubleheader at home versus Polk State College.

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