Sometimes it takes all of us. The players are the ones in the arena putting their bodies on the line, but the fans can create leverage in some big spots. In Kentucky’s 5-4 win over NC State at the College World Series, the Big Blue Nation found a way to make an impact.
The Kentucky fans in attendance brought the juice from the first pitch until Mitchell Day’s walk-off home run in the 10th inning.
“Just the energy they brought today. I mean, I think everybody in the stadium was doing Waldy’s walk-up song thing. It’s really cool. The energy around this place is special,” Daly told reporters on Saturday evening. “To give the fans endings like that, it’s pretty awesome.”
“Just so thankful. Just proud of our team, our current players, our staff, former staff, former players, for our fans. I’ve just tried to do the best job I could with this season just making sure that I show gratitude,” Kentucky head coach Nick Mingione said.
The replay of Mitchell Daly’s home run will be shown for a long time in the Bluegrass. Part of the reason it was so memorable was due to the big pop from the crowd. Kentucky fans made a true difference in the extra innings victory.
But the support was also there when Kentucky was on defense. Starting pitcher Trey Pooser admitted that he was nervous before the game and those nerves led to a four-pitch walk to start the game. However, the Big Blue Nation helped get Pooser in a groove on the mound.
“They helped calm my nerves, made it feel like it was a home game. It was awesome,” said Pooser.
Kentucky fans understood the assignment in Omaha. Now that assignment shifts to Rocco’s where I’m sure some Big Blue jello shots will be consumed tonight. We could see a more rowdy turnout when Kentucky faces the winner of Florida/Texas A&M on Monday night.
“Our fans were amazing,” Mingione said.
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