Softball Recap: Naperville Central Continues Home Dominance on Monday

Naperville Central's game on Saturday was a loss, but they didn't let that memory haunt them on Monday. They sure made it a nail-biter, but they managed to escape with a 2-1 victory over the Neuqua Valley Wildcats. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win the Redhawks have posted since May 14, 2024.

Avery Miller spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered a run (which was unearned) on three hits and racked up nine Ks. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in seven consecutive appearances.

On the hitting side, Naperville Central's victory was truly a team effort as three different players contributed at least one hit. One of them was Cali Lenz, who went 1-for-2 with one double and one RBI.

Redhawks

Previous 6 Games (Home)

05/12/25 vs Neuqua Valley	2-1
05/09/25 vs West Chicago	5-0
05/07/25 vs Waubonsie Valley	8-1
05/05/25 vs Metea Valley	11-1
05/02/25 vs West Aurora	11-1
04/30/25 vs DeKalb	9-3

Naperville Central pushed their record up to 16-12 with the win, which was their sixth straight at home. Those home victories came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 7.7 runs over those games. As for Neuqua Valley, they have been struggling recently as they've lost five of their last six matches. That's put a noticeable dent in their 12-14 record this season.

Naperville Central and Neuqua Valley should be looking forward to their upcoming games as both have a sizable advantage in the MaxPreps Illinois Rankings. The Redhawks (ranked 104th) will meet Naperville North (ranked 253rd) at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Neuqua Valley will take on Metea Valley at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday with a big rank advantage (167 vs. 362).