The Orange softball team is tied for first place in the Big 8 Conference after a thrilling 6-5 win over Northwood in eight innings. Freshman catcher Lauren Jackson lined an infield single to score Maddie Bartlett for the game-winning run. In the 7th inning, designated hitter Emma Puckett doubled to left field to score Olivia Ruff for the game-tying run. Orange was down to its last out before Puckett’s hit. Jackson finished 4-for-4. Orange is now 5-1 in Big 8 Conference play, even with Cedar Ridge. The Lady Panthers are scheduled to face Northwood on Wednesday in Pittsboro, then take on Chapel Hill in a doubleheader on Thursday.