Tony Vitello addresses how the umpires handled Tennessee’s high emotions during Game 2

Sports are filled with passion, and the occasional fit of anger. Tennessee head coach Tony Vitello felt that anger in Game 2 of the Hattiesburg Super Regional.

In Tennessee’s 8-4 win over the Southern Miss Golden Eagles on Sunday, tempers flared. After Tennessee went down 4-0 to begin the game, the Volunteers were desperate to swing momentum their way. Unfortunately for the game’s umpire, he felt the sharp end of that desperation.

Vitelli gave props to the umpires for how they handled the in-game frustration.

“It was handled well, especially because we’re all fired up over on our side. But, again, when you’re fighting for your season, whether it be on of the two teams here or anywhere across the country, there’s going to be a lot of stuff going on,” Vitello said following Tennessee’s Game 2 win. “Thankfully, it led to a good finish but there’s all kinds of ups and downs going over in that dugout.”

The Volunteers weren’t simply mad at the scoreboard, but the flow of the game, as well. Southern Miss pitcher Tanner Hall put Tennessee in a losing position early with his pace. The 6-foot-1 junior threw five quick strikeouts before the Volunteers could gather their wits.

Vitelli wasn’t happy with the situation.

“Hall works so quick. We talked about it. He preys on frustration, and he does a lot to frustrate you because he’s so good,” Vitello said. “We had talked about making sure we take our time and take ownership of the box. Be ready to go when you’re ready to go. That’s kind of how that flared up.”

Maybe Tennessee should get “flared up” more often. After going down 4-0 and arguing with the umpires, the Volunteers fired back with six runs in the top of fourth inning, capitalized by a 479-foot shot by first baseman Blake Burke.

Vitello is proud of his team’s response to the adversity.

“You have to show that you’re in the fight. And, this is an emotional deal for kids and we kind of act like kids too, as coaches,” Vitello said. “To respond in a way to that challenging inning, where he gets a breather first of all, but also to show that we’re truly in the fight is really important.”

Tennessee must show fight once more as the the team takes on Southern Miss in Game 3 of the Hattiesburg Super Regional. The winner will advance to Men’s College World Series. The game begins at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN2.

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