Softball Game Preview: Northwestern Regional Highlanders vs. Shepaug Valley Spartans

The Northwestern Regional Highlanders will head out to square off against the Shepaug Valley Spartans at 3:45 p.m. on Monday. Both squads will be entering this one on the heels of a big victory.

Northwestern Regional barely beat Thomaston the last time the pair played, but that sure wasn't the case this time around. The Highlanders' pitchers stepped up to hand the Bears a 6-0 shutout on Thursday. The game was the first time the Highlanders have beaten the Bears on their field since May 18, 2022.

Meanwhile, Shepaug Valley came into Thursday's contest having lost three straight, but that streak is now in the rearview. They blew past Terryville 21-0 on Thursday. That 21 run margin sets a new team best for the Spartans this season.

Hayden Fisher was incredible, firing off two home runs, eight RBI, and three runs while going 3-for-4. Those eight RBI gave her a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Lexi Thomas, who got on base in all five of her plate appearances with five runs, two stolen bases, and one double.

Shepaug Valley always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .737. They are a perfect 5-0 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.

Northwestern Regional's win was their third straight on the road, which pushed their record up to 6-2. Those road victories came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 12.0 runs over those games. As for Shepaug Valley, their win bumped their record up to 6-8.

Northwestern Regional was able to grind out a solid victory over Shepaug Valley in their previous matchup back in April, winning 6-2. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Highlanders since the squad won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.