The Phoenix Academy Phoenix will head out to take on the Bethany Community Wolves at 4:30 p.m. on Friday. Phoenix Academy has given up an average of 14.2 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Phoenix Academy fell victim to Cornerstone Charter Academy and their airtight pitching crew on Tuesday. They came up short against the Cardinals, falling 17-0. Considering the last time the Phoenix couldn't score was back in March, the team can't take the result too hard.
Meanwhile, there's no place like home for Bethany Community, who bounced back after a loss on the road on Tuesday. They were the clear victors by an 18-0 margin over The North Carolina Leadership Academy on Thursday. Considering the Wolves have won four games by more than six runs this season, Thursday's blowout was nothing new.
Audrey Waddell made a splash while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out nine batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit. She has been consistent: she hasn't tossed less than seven strikeouts in six consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going a perfect 2-for-2 with three runs, three RBI, and one stolen base.
In other batting news, Ashlyn Tucker was a standout: she went 1-for-2 with three runs, one double, and one RBI. Those three runs gave her a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Mattie Southard, who went 1-for-2 with three runs, one double, and one RBI.
Bethany Community was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .400. That was just more of the same: they've now posted a batting average of .364 or higher in four consecutive contests.
Bethany Community has been performing well recently as they've won three of their last four matchups. That's provided a nice bump to their 7-4 record this season. The wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 10.8 runs over those games. As for Phoenix Academy, their defeat dropped their record down to 0-5.
Friday's game will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Phoenix Academy hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .313. However, it's not like Bethany Community struggles in that department as they've averaged .336. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.
