Fierros’ late homer helps Jayhawks rally

? Freshman Nettie Fierros blasted a two-run home run in the top of the seventh inning, helping the Kansas University softball team beat Texas Tech, 7-6, Saturday at Rocky Johnson Field.

Fierros’ homer was the 33rd of the season for the Jayhawks– a team record.

The Red Raiders loaded the bases with no outs off junior pitcher Kara Pierce in the bottom of the seventh, but Pierce (14-7) got a force out and two strikeouts to end the game.

Pierce worked the complete-game victory, allowing six runs on seven hits while striking out eight and walking three.

Junior Mel Wallach had a two-run blast for the Jayhawks (22-11 overall, 2-5 Big 12 Conference), and junior Sandy Smith added two hits.

The Jayhawks conclude the two-game series with Texas Tech at 1 p.m. today.

Kansas 7, Texas Tech 6

Kansas 300 020 2 — 7 8 2

Texas Tech 000 402 0 — 6 7 3

W–Pierce (14-7). L–Stines (4-14).

2B–Tech: Joachins. HR–KU: Mel Wallach, Nettie Fierros; Tech: Sigals.

KU highlights: Ashley Frazer 2 hits, 1 run; Nettie Fierros, 2 hits, 2 RBIs, 1 run; Mel Wallach 2 RBIs; Sandy Smith 2 RBIs; Pierce 8 strikeouts, 7 hits in 7 innings.