Trojans Softball Drops The Ball Against UVA Wise
Wise, VA- Trojans softball traveled to Wise, VA for a match-up against the University of Virginia at Wise on February 23, 2025, at 11 am & 1 pm.
Game 1 VSU 1 vs UVA WISE 9
The game began with both teams held scoreless in the first inning. Virginia State's offense went down in order, and UVA-Wise couldn't capitalize on a few opportunities. However, everything changed in the second inning.
In a shocking turn of events, UVA-Wise erupted in the bottom of the 2nd, scoring 6 runs in a display of offensive prowess. Mallory McKnight kicked off the scoring streak with a thrilling solo home run, and the ensuing hits were a mix of singles and daring stolen bases. Players like Mataya Ausmus and Taylor Clay added to the momentum, allowing UVA-Wise to seize a substantial early lead.
Virginia State fought back in the top of the 4th, netting a run when
Alaijah Pratt performed a clever steal of home after a double and a single set the stage. Unfortunately, they couldn't capitalize on this resurgence, as their offensive efforts again fell short.
The bottom of the 4th saw UVA Wise extend their lead with 3 additional runs driven in by Mataya Ausmus, Emma McCauley, and Adyson Gibson. Virginia State struggled to find their offensive rhythm in the top of the 5th, going down quietly without any hits.
As the game reached the fifth inning, UVA-Wise stood with a commanding 9-1 lead. Their effective hitting, astute base running, and solid defense have left Virginia State in a tough spot. With the next inning on the horizon, it remains to be seen if Virginia State can rally for a comeback, but for now, UVA-Wise firmly holds the upper hand.
Game 2 VSU 4 vs UVA WISE 12
The game kicked off with a burst of energy from Virginia State, who quickly seized the lead in the top of the first.
Lauren Parham set the tone by singling to start things off and displaying some savvy base running by stealing second.
Mylia Knight capitalized on the momentum, driving in Parham with a sharp single to put Virginia State ahead 1-0. The fans erupted, but the excitement didn't last long!
UVA Wise wasted no time answering back. In the bottom of the first, Adyson Gibson showcased her speed with a stolen base, setting the stage for Kaylynn Baker's clutch RBI single that tied the game at 1-1. Just like that, the atmosphere crackled with excitement as the teams traded jabs.
Virginia State found another opportunity in the top of the second, when
Nyla Brown scurried home on a wild pitch, nudging the score to 2-1. But UVA-Wise was relentless and came roaring back in the bottom of the inning. Mataya Ausmus and Riley Nichols delivered some crucial hits, allowing the home team to surge ahead with a 3-2 lead.
As the game progressed, the energy intensified, particularly in the top of the fourth. Virginia State mounted a spirited comeback, scoring two runs and briefly reclaiming their advantage at 4-3. But just when it seemed like they were in control, UVA-Wise struck back hard in the bottom of the fourth. Taking advantage of some costly defensive errors by Virginia State, they capitalized with three unearned runs. Abagail Mills then delivered a sensational double, pushing the score to 6-4 in favor of UVA-Wise.
The fifth inning turned out to be the game's defining moment. UVA Wise exploded for an astounding five runs, capped off by Mallory McKnight's powerful two-run homer that sent shockwaves through the crowd. Add in a wild pitch that scored Adyson Gibson and a flurry of walks and hit batters, and suddenly UVA Wise had ballooned their lead to an impressive 11-4.
The assault continued into the bottom of the sixth, where Lindsey Polan's single drove in Taylor Clay, bringing the final score to a commanding 12-4. The game ended early due to the mercy rule, underscoring UVA Wise's dominance.
With their potent batting lineup and aggressive base running leading the charge, UVA-Wise showcased why they were a force to be reckoned with. Though Virginia State started strong, they couldn't keep pace as UVA-Wise took control and secured a decisive victory.Â
Trojans softball will travel to Emory, VA on Monday, February 24, for a doubleheader game at 12 PM and 2 PM.
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