Alabama softball will start its quest back to Oklahoma City, Okla., on Friday night. The Crimson Tide hasn’t reached the Women’s College World Series since 2021 and after a strong finish earned it a five-seed, expectations remain high.

Rhoads Stadium is no stranger to the NCAA regional, hosting the opening round for the 18th straight tournament. Before the Crimson Tide hosted LIU, Middle Tennessee knocked off Central Arkansas, 8-0, in five innings.

Crimson Tide ace Montana Fouts is not expected to play against the Sharks. She was spotted pregame with a brace on her left knee as she recovers from a hyperextended leg suffered on May 11.

Junior right-handed pitcher Jaala Torrence was seen warming up in the bullpen an hour before game time. Redshirt sophomore Alex Salter threw a bit as well.

The first pitch is scheduled for 6:25 CST and will be broadcast on ESPNU and ESPN+. Follow along for updates.

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2ND INNING

Top: Torrence recorded her first strikeout as Padilla struck out looking in another full count. She then allowed her first hit on a line drive double that made it just past the outstretched glove of left fielder Jordan Stephens. LIU nearly tied it on its next swing, but Preuitt dove for a great catch in right field. She then doubled off Maya Avila, who left for home as the batter made contact. Alabama 1, LIU 0

Bottom: The Tide offense didn’t let up after Emma Broadfoot started the frame with a leadoff walk. Kali Heivilin belted a two-run home run over the fence in left field to empty the Alabama dugout. The swing knocked Cowans, an All-NEC second-team pitcher, out of the game.

Alabama 3, LIU 0

1ST INNING

Top: Jaala Torrence drew a pair of pop-ups from LIU’s first two hitters, Camryn Lyman and Kristen Blanchard. After Alyssa Polemni worked a full court, Torrence got her to ground out to Kenleigh Cahalan for a clean, 14-pitch start. Alabama 0, LIU 0

Bottom: Alabama will face sophomore Lindsey Cowans, who leads LIU in innings pitched (173.2). Cahalan grounded a pitch into the dirt, then Larissa Preuitt popped out to the catcher in foul territory. The first run of the game came via two doubles to left field by Ashley Prange and Bailey Dowling. Alabama nearly added to its lead but a diving stop by Gabby Padilla ended the threat. Alabama 1, LIU 0

LINEUPS

Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at [email protected].