Softball Game Preview: Cardinal Newman Crusaders vs. Dwyer Panthers

Cardinal Newman hasn't had much luck against Dwyer recently, but that could start to change on Wednesday. The Crusaders will face off against the Panthers at 6:30 p.m. Cardinal Newman is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 6.6 runs per game this season.

Oxbridge Academy hit Cardinal Newman with a five-run sixth inning on Wednesday, which goes a long way in explaining the final result. The Crusaders took a 6-2 hit to the loss column at the hands of the ThunderWolves. The Crusaders' loss continues a trend for the squad, making it three in a row.

Maeve Adams spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered just two earned (and four unearned) runs on 11 hits. She has been consistent for a while: she hasn't given up more than two walks in nine consecutive appearances.

At the plate, Reese Khanna made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and went 3-for-4 with one stolen base, one run, and one RBI.

Meanwhile, it was a proper cat-fight when Dwyer challenged King's Academy on Tuesday. The Panthers never let the Lions get on the board and left with a 4-0 win. The victory was familiar territory for the Panthers, who have now won three contests in a row.

The result came thanks to Haylee Taylor's shutout, as she gave up just five hits.

On the hitting side, Sierra Cook was excellent, going 1-for-3 with one triple, one run, and one RBI. That triple was her first of the season.

Cardinal Newman's defeat dropped their record down to 5-15. As for Dwyer, their win bumped their record up to 11-12.

Cardinal Newman might still be hurting after the 13-6 loss they got from Dwyer in their previous meeting back in April of 2024. Can the Crusaders avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.