Softball Game Preview: Inspiration Academy Lions vs. Elizabeth Forward Warriors

The Inspiration Academy Lions will head out to challenge the Elizabeth Forward Warriors at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday. Inspiration Academy will be looking to extend their current seven-game winning streak.

Inspiration Academy had to skate by with only a one-run margin when they last took the field, which might have inspired the 15-run drubbing they dealt Austin Prep on Wednesday. Inspiration Academy's pitchers stepped up to hand Austin Prep a 15-0 shutout. That 15 run margin sets a new team best for the Lions this season.

Emma Szabo made a big impact no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, tossing two innings while giving up no earned runs off two hits. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in eight consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, scoring two runs while going 1-for-2. That's the most runs she has posted since back in February.

In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Avery Bouquin, who scored three runs while going 2-for-2. Aubrey Osborne also deserves some recognition as she snagged her first stolen base of the season.

Inspiration Academy hit smart and finished the game with only one strikeout. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now struck out at most four strikeouts in three consecutive matches.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth Forward took care of business in their home opener (and then some) on Wednesday. They were the clear victor by a 12-2 margin over Austin Prep.

Addy Nigut was incredible, scoring two runs while going 4-for-4. The team also got some help courtesy of Sophie Pasinsky, who scored a run and stole a base while going 1-for-4.

Inspiration Academy's record is now 13-4. As for Elizabeth Forward, their win was their 13th straight at home dating back to last season, which pushed their record up to 1-0.