Gamecock softball earns Palmetto series victory, 3-1

LEMSON, S.C. – The South Carolina softball team (24-20) went to the Upstate and earned a 3-1 victory over Clemson (27-17) Tuesday night (Apr. 14) in the final game of the Palmetto Series Presented by the South Carolina Education Lottery.

Jamie Mackay powered the offense, going 3-for-4 with a solo home run. Tori Ensley added two RBIs.

Jori Heard was dominant in the circle, scattering three hits in the complete game victory. She struck out one and allowed only one walk on 81 pitches. After a two-out single in the first, Heard retired the next 13 Tigers, until a walk to lead off the sixth.

The Gamecocks jumped out to a quick lead in the first. Quincee Lilio drew a leadoff walk, and after a fielder’s choice, Karley Shelton was hit by a pitch. A single by Mackay loaded the bases. On the very next pitch, Ensley hit it off the wall in center to score Arianna Rodi and Shelton.

South Carolina had a hit in each of the next three innings but were unable to add to the lead until the seventh.

With one out in the frame and a full count on Mackay, she connected on her fifth home run of the season, over the wall in right field.

Clemson’s lone run came on a solo home run to lead off the bottom of the seventh.

The Gamecocks continue their road trip with an SEC series at Missouri beginning April 17.