University of Tennessee Athletics
USA, Gibson Fall In Gold Medal Game
July 22, 2012 | Softball
July 22, 2012
WHITEHORSE, Yukon, Canada - Despite Lauren Gibson's game-tying RBI single in the bottom of the ninth, USA fell in 10 innings to Japan, 2-1 in the ISF Fastpitch World Championships. USA takes home the Silver Medal.
In a battle that stood scoreless through eight innings, Japan took a 1-0 lead in the top of the ninth with the international tie-breaker rule in effect. Furuta Maki drove in Kawano Misato for the game's first run.
With the USA down to its final strike, Lauren Gibson singled to drive in Christie Orgeron in the bottom of the ninth and keep USA's hope alive, tying the game at one. That was the US's third and final hit of the game.
In the top of the 10th, Japan took the lead as Yamada Eri's single up the middle brought home Okubo Misa with two outs.
USA was unable to capitalize with Kaitlin Cochran placed at second base as part of the tie-breaker rule. Ashley Holocombe-Bell grounded out to end the game.
In the World Championships, Gibson had a tremendous run, hitting .522 (12-for-23) with four home runs, 12 runs scored and 12 RBI. She has reached base in 16 of 27 plate appearances.
