Softball Game Preview: Williamson Warriors vs. Northeast Bradford Panthers

Williamson hasn't had much luck against Northeast Bradford recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Warriors will square off against the Panthers at 4:30 p.m. Williamson is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 6.8 runs per game this season.

Williamson took a loss when they played away from home two weeks ago, but their home fans gave them all the motivation they needed on Tuesday. Everything went their way against Wyalusing Valley as they made off with an 8-2 win. The victory was some much needed relief for the Warriors as it spelled an end to their three-game losing streak.

Kenna Thomas spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered just two earned runs on three hits and racked up 12 Ks. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in seven consecutive appearances.

On the hitting side, Lexi Smalley was excellent, going 1-for-3 with three runs, one stolen base, and one double. The team also got some help courtesy of Kaegen Short, who got on base in three of her four plate appearances with two RBI and one run.

Meanwhile, Thursday just wasn't the day for Northeast Bradford's offense. They lost 11-0 to South Williamsport on Thursday. The defeat continues a trend for the Panthers in their meetings with the Mountaineers: they've now lost three in a row.

Williamson's win was their ninth straight at home dating back to last season, which pushed their record up to 6-4. The home victories came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 2.4 runs on average over those games. As for Northeast Bradford, their loss dropped their record down to 6-4.

Williamson was able to grind out a solid win over Northeast Bradford in their previous meeting back in March, winning 4-0. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Warriors since the team won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.