Softball Game Preview: Highland Trojans vs. Kankakee Valley Kougars

The Highland Trojans will head out on the road to challenge the Kankakee Valley Kougars at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. Highland has given up an average of 6.8 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Hobart hit Highland with a six-run second inning on Tuesday, which goes a long way in explaining the final result. The Trojans lost 11-4 to the Brickies. Trojans fans who chose to attend the game sure picked the wrong one: it was the first time the team's lost against the Brickies since on Tuesday.

Erica Phillips was cooking despite her team's loss, going a perfect 3-for-3 with two runs and one stolen base.

The home team had won the previous four meetings between Kankakee Valley and Andrean, and Andrean kept the tradition alive. The Kougars fell 9-4 to the Fighting 59ers on Tuesday.

Patience Cole made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and went 2-for-3 with one run, one double, and one RBI.

Highland's loss dropped their record down to 9-7. As for Kankakee Valley, their defeat dropped their record down to 8-7.

Thursday's game will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Highland hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .440. However, it's not like Kankakee Valley struggles in that department as they've averaged .319. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.

Highland skirted past Kankakee Valley 9-8 in their previous matchup back in April. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Trojans since the team won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.