Softball Game Preview: Haleyville Lions vs. Russellville Golden Tigers

Haleyville hasn't had much luck against Russellville recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Lions will venture away from home to challenge the Golden Tigers at 4:30 p.m. Haleyville has given up an average of 9.8 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Haleyville fell victim to Hackleburg and their airtight pitching crew on Tuesday. They came up short against the Panthers, falling 16-0.

Meanwhile, Russellville was not able to break out of their rough patch on Tuesday as the team picked up their fifth straight defeat. They took a 5-2 hit to the loss column at the hands of West Morgan.

Taitum Bishop spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered only one earned (and four unearned) runs on seven hits and racked up seven Ks. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than one walk in eight consecutive appearances.

On the hitting side, Ticelee Gholston was cooking despite her team's loss, scoring a run and stealing three bases while going 3-for-4. Chloe James also deserves some recognition as she snagged her first stolen base of the season.

Russellville's loss dropped their record down to 4-23. As for Haleyville, their defeat dropped their record down to 3-16.

Haleyville might still be hurting after the 12-2 loss they got from Russellville when the teams last played back in March. Can the Lions avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.