Division I College Softball World Series : UCLA Defeats Arizona State, 1-0, in a Soggy Opener

Fourth-ranked UCLA, with a little help from the weather, pulled out a 1-0, nine-inning victory over Arizona State Wednesday in the first game of the double-elimination College Softball World Series.

Rain had already halted play once and was threatening again when, with two out in the bottom of the ninth inning, Shauna Wattenberg--whose .200 average is the second lowest on the team--dropped a fly ball into soggy center field. Arizona State center fielder Kathy Escarcega fielded the ball, but her relay throw was off, allowing Monica Tourville to score the winning run all the way from first base.

The hit made a winner out of Lisa Longaker (18-4), who retired the side in the ninth after relieving starter Samantha Ford, who allowed only two hits.

Donna Stewart (24-6) gave up eight hits and took the loss for the No. 11 Sun Devils.

UCLA (47-8) will play the winner of the Fresno State-Nebraska game in the second round today. That game was suspended by rain in the fourth inning Wednesday night with Nebraska leading, 1-0. It will be completed today.

Arizona State (41-14) will play the loser of that game. The other four teams in the tournament--including top-ranked and defending champion Cal State Fullerton--begin play today.