Softball Recap: Vancleave Starts Season with Defeat on the Road

Vancleave had to start their season on the road on Monday, and it wasn't the start they were hoping for. They fell just short of the Pearl River Central Blue Devils by a score of 9-8. The Bulldogs were given a dose of their own medicine in this game as the Blue Devils apparently hadn't forgotten their defeat the last time these teams played back in February of 2024.

Brooklyn Howard was huge while hitting and pitching even without the win. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out six batters over six innings while giving up four earned (and two unearned) runs off six hits. Howard was also solid in the batter's box, going 2-for-3 with one double.

In other batting news, Brenley Hunter made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and scored two runs while going 2-for-3. Hadleigh Hall was another key player, going 2-for-5 with two RBI.

Looking ahead, Vancleave will challenge Biloxi at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday. As for Pearl River Central, they will be taking part in a tournament against Poplarville at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.