Softball Game Preview: Ashley Screaming Eagle vs. East Columbus Gators

The Ashley Screaming Eagle will square off against the East Columbus Gators at 5:00 p.m. on Monday. The squads are rolling into the game with opposing streaks: Ashley has struggled recently with four losses in a row, while East Columbus will arrive with three straight victories.

Friday just wasn't the day for Ashley's offense. They lost 12-0 to Laney on Friday.

East Columbus hadn't beaten North Duplin on the road since May 23, 2023 but that history sure didn't bother them on Tuesday. The Gators were the clear victors by a 14-2 margin over the Rebels. The result was nothing new for the Gators, who have now won four matchups by nine runs or more so far this season.

Gracie Coyle spent all six innings played on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered only one earned (and one unearned) run on two hits and racked up six Ks.

On the hitting side, East Columbus let Kamora Bryant and Sara Coleman run wild. Bryant fired off two home runs and eight RBI while going 2-for-3, while Coleman fired off two home runs, four runs, and three RBI while getting on base in all four of her plate appearances. That's the most home runs Bryant has posted since back in February of 2025. The team also got some help courtesy of Skylah Collins, who got on base in three of her four plate appearances with three runs and one RBI.

Ashley's defeat dropped their record down to 1-5. As for East Columbus, their win bumped their record up to 4-1.

Ashley suffered a grim 15-0 defeat to East Columbus in their previous meeting back in April of 2025. Will the Screaming Eagle have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.