Coastal Carolina Claims Conway Regional with 1-0 over East Carolina

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    CONWAY, S.C. — In a tense pitching battle, Wells Sykes initiated the eighth inning with a crucial single, eventually crossing home plate on a well-executed sacrifice fly by Sebastian Alexander. This key moment secured a tight 1-0 victory for the 13th-seed Coastal Carolina over East Carolina, clinching the Conway Regional win on Sunday.

    The Chanticleers, boasting a 51-11 record, are making their 21st appearance in the NCAA Tournament as they proceed to the super regionals. Coastal Carolina, whose notable claim to fame is their successful College World Series campaign in 2016, looks to build upon their impressive history.

    Riley Eikhoff, the starting pitcher for Coastal Carolina, engaged in a true duel with East Carolina’s Bradley Zayac, holding a scoreless game into the eighth inning. Eikhoff departed after issuing a walk on his 95th pitch, making way for Dominick Carbone. Carbone skillfully struck out both Dixon Williams and pinch-hitter Alex Bouche, ensuring the tie was maintained. Eikhoff’s performance included allowing five hits and three walks.

    In contrast, Zayac delivered a career-high performance, pitching 7 1/3 innings and throwing a remarkable 89 pitches. However, after Sykes moved through the bases on a flyout and a wild pitch to reach third, Sean Jenkins entered the game. Jenkins couldn’t prevent Alexander’s decisive sacrifice fly. Zayac’s record reflects a challenging season, standing at 1-4.

    Carbone, now at 6-0, ended the game in strong fashion by securing three strikeouts over the final five outs to earn the win. The Chanticleers, who also defeated the Pirates 18-7 the day prior, boast an excellent 34-2 record when scoring first.

    This victory marks a continuation of success for Coastal Carolina, while East Carolina, despite 35 NCAA Tournament appearances and seven regional championships, continues to chase its first College World Series berth. Earlier on Sunday, the Pirates claimed an 11-4 victory over the Florida Gators, keeping their postseason hopes alive until this match.