Columbia Cougars (Maplewood, NJ) backers exited the stadium thrilled Wednesday as they saw their softball squad nip the visiting West Essex Knights (North Caldwell, NJ), 8-5 in a league challenge.

The Cougars now own a 7-4 record. They take the field next when they host Nutley for a SEC - American challenge on Thursday, April 25. Columbia will face a Maroon Raiders squad coming off a 5-2 non-league loss to Glen Ridge (Glen Ridge, NJ). The Maroon Raiders record now stands at 9-4.

With the loss, West Essex falls to 1-11 on the campaign. The Knights host Millburn (Millburn, NJ) to face the Millers in a SEC - Liberty challenge on Thursday, April 25. The Millers enter the challenge with a record of 2-6.