Owls Lose Handle, Lose to Vanderbilt

by Mark Anderson

Feb.9, Houston--For five innings and then some, the Owls looked like they had a secure grip on the 2-0 lead against #5 rated Vanderbilt.

Then the wheels fell off. Big time.

Two plays--a dropped pop-up in shallow centerfield (in spite of a great effort) by Luna opened the doors in the 6th. Tyler Henley's diving attempt the next inning that came off his glove, disappeared from view, only to be kicked up from behind in the 7th inning, was the key play in a four run outburst by Vandy from which Rice could not recover.

And then there were two pitches in the 8th, as Coach Graham pointed out afterwards, that sealed the deal. Bobby Bramhall allowed a home run to left to Shea Robin was the first one. Gunderson was brought in to relieve Bramhall at that point, and both Gunderson and Dodson were in danger of whiplash as Matt Mwingasner followed with a quick-leaving shot to left.

Bright Spots For the Owls
There were some bright spots on this rather chilly day for the Owls. The first was found in starter Chris Kelley. Kelley pitched a great game, going 5 1/3 innings, giving up only 4 hits and a walk. In spite of not getting some pitches called in his favor, Kelley never appeared rattled. The fact he only walked one in spite of not getting several calls is a testimony to the ability this young man possesses.

Another bright spot today was Jess Buenger coming off the bench as a pinch-hitter. With two outs and a runner on, Vandy brought in Rhoden to pitch for Price. While Rhoden was within their strike zone, he was somewhat wild in it. He grooved a pitch that Buenger didn't miss, driving it to the wall in right-center for a double, and scoring J.P. Padron as he took third on an error.

Lembeck and Friday also had hot bats, with two hits each.

More on this story. . . . .including pics. . . . tonight or in the morning.