Softball Game Preview: Northeast Eagles vs. Rossview Hawks

Northeast hasn't had much luck against Rossview recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. It'll be a Battle of the Birds when Northeast Eagles challenge Rossview Hawks at 5:30 p.m. Northeast has given up an average of 8.3 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Northeast came up short against Springfield on Tuesday, falling 12-2. The Eagles have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Makayla Tusie was cooking despite her team's loss, going 1-for-2 with one home run. Julie Rollins also deserves some recognition as she hit her first double of the season.

Meanwhile, Rossview fell victim to Jo Byrns and their airtight pitching crew on Tuesday. They took a 3-0 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Red Devils. The Hawks have struggled against the Red Devils recently, as the game was their third consecutive lost meeting.

Avery Rauscher spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered three earned runs on four hits and racked up 11 Ks. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than two walks in four consecutive appearances.

Rossview's defeat dropped their record down to 3-6. As for Northeast, their loss dropped their record down to 4-3.

Northeast's speedy runners might be the difference in Thursday's game. The Eagles have been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 3.3 stolen bases per game. It's a different story for Rossview, though, as they've been averaging only 0.9 stolen bases. Will they be able to secure the bases, or will Northeast continue to outrun the ball?

Northeast suffered a grim 12-0 defeat to Rossview when the teams last played back in April of 2024. Can the Eagles avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.