Runner Interference

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally posted by alabamabluezebra
8U (Dixie Rules) situation: Bases loaded 1 out. Ground ball hit to SS. The runner sees the SS making the play, hesitates, and attempts to cut in front of the SS. The SS muffs the ball which rolls down her leg forward toward the runner. The SS moves forward to retrieve the ball causing contact with the runner. I realized this is a HTBT play but is the fielder protected throughout the play? I was a spectator at the game and disagreed with the ruling on the field (quietly in my own mind). How would you rule under your rules - ASA, NF, etc.?

Point one, 8U games should not be using umpires.

Two, I'm having a hard time visualizing that the runner cut in front of the SS as the ball was approaching, yet the ball hit the fielder, rolled down the leg and the runner was still in the vicinity for the ball to catch up to them.