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Southwestern University’s Doubleheader Showdown with Harding Softball

Action shot from Southwestern University's softball doubleheader against Harding.

News Summary

Southwestern University faced a thrilling doubleheader against Harding this past Sunday, marked by standout performances on both sides. The first game saw Harding dominate with two grand slams, while the second game showcased Southwestern’s resilience in securing a 5-1 victory. Fans experienced an electrifying atmosphere filled with excitement as both teams fought hard in the Great American Conference.

Southwestern University’s Thrilling Doubleheader Showdown Against Harding Softball!

This past Sunday, the atmosphere was electric as the 17th-ranked Harding Lady Bisons faced off against Southwestern Oklahoma in an exciting doubleheader. Fans packed the stands, eager to witness the showdown in the Great American Conference (GAC) action. And oh boy, it did not disappoint!

Game One: A Grand Slam Spectacle

The first match kicked off with a bang, quite literally, as Harding stormed the field with powerhouse energy. They wasted no time showcasing their skills, scoring an impressive six runs in the first inning, cryptically setting the tone for the day. Leading the charge was none other than Bailey Willis, who slammed a fantastic grand slam, sending the crowd into a frenzy!

As if that wasn’t enough, the Lady Bisons quickly followed with another grand slam from Emaline Pearson in the second inning. This marked a historic moment, as it was the first time in Harding’s program history that the team hit not one, but two grand slams in a single game! The fans were left in awe as they cheered on their team.

On the mound, Brooklyn Gobble demonstrated her skill by throwing her first complete-game shutout, striking out an impressive nine batters while allowing just four hits. With this stellar performance, her record improved to an impressive 6-1 for the season! As the runs kept pouring in, the first game ended with a lopsided score of 14-0 after just five innings due to the run rule.

Meanwhile, Riley Lusk from Southwestern Oklahoma took the loss in this first game, bringing her record to 0-2 for the season. The pressure was on for the Lady Bulldogs as they prepared for the next game.

Game Two: A Turn of Tables

5-1. Alexis Taylor pitched five shutout innings, allowing only three hits and striking out four batters. Her stellar performance proved to be just what the team needed to regain their footing.

Harding struggled offensively in this matchup, and their only run came late in the seventh inning when Emma Curry doubled to bring home Bailey Willis. As the crowd held its breath, the excitement in the game diminished for Harding, who couldn’t muster enough of a comeback this time.

Riley Price took the loss for Harding in this second game, allowing three runs (one earned) on four hits in only 1 2/3 innings. Meanwhile, Southwestern took an early lead, scoring three runs by the end of the second inning. They sealed their victory with a crushing two-run homer from Katie Boline in the fifth inning, leaving everything to play for the next matchup.

Looking Ahead

With these results, Harding wrapped up the day with an overall record of 14-3 and a 2-1 in the GAC, while Southwestern Oklahoma improved their overall record to 6-7 and 1-2 in the GAC. Fans of college softball will want to mark their calendars because Harding is set to play its home opener against Ouachita Baptist next weekend. The first game of that exciting series kicks off on February 28 at 4 p.m. So grab your hats and get ready to cheer on the Lady Bisons as they continue their spirited quest in the season!

What a day it was for softball fans! With action-packed games and thrilling moments, it promises to be a fantastic season ahead. Hope to see everyone supporting their teams!