Softball Game Preview: Houlka Wildcats vs. Water Valley Blue Devils

The Houlka Wildcats will face off against the Water Valley Blue Devils at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday. Houlka is looking for their season's first win.

Tuesday just wasn't the day for Houlka's offense. They lost 15-0 to Vardaman on Tuesday. The match marked the first time this year in which the Wildcats were not able to get on the board.

Meanwhile, while Water Valley put up plenty of runs on Monday, the same can't be said for Palmer. Water Valley put the hurt on Palmer with a sharp 14-0 victory. The Blue Devils might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won seven contests by 12 runs or more this season.

The team relied heavily on Mariah Wilson, who scored two runs and stole two bases while going 2-for-2. Another player making a difference was Belle Belcher, who scored two runs while going 2-for-3.

Water Valley was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .389. They are 5-1 when they post a batting average of .375 or better.

Water Valley has been performing well recently as they've won six of their last eight games. That's provided a nice bump to their 8-6 record this season. Those wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 15.4 runs over those games. Houlka's loss dropped their record down to 0-11.

Thursday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Houlka has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .472. However, it's not like Water Valley struggles in that department as they've averaged .564. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.

Houlka suffered a grim 17-4 defeat to Water Valley in their previous matchup back in February. Can Houlka avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.