An exciting North v. South battle is about to be fought. The Bloomington North Cougars will host the Bloomington South Panthers at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Bloomington North is coming into the contest on a five-game losing streak.
Bloomington North managed to slip by Shakamak the last time these teams faced off, but didn't have those same answers this time around. The Cougars came up short against the Lakers on Monday, falling 16-7.
Kinsley Stanley was cooking despite her team's loss, going 2-for-4 with three RBI. The team also got some help courtesy of Chelsea Helton, who went 1-for-3 with two runs and one RBI.
Meanwhile, Bloomington South hadn't done well against Terre Haute South Vigo recently (they were 1-8 in their previous nine matchups), but they didn't let the past get in their way on Thursday. The Panthers blew past the Braves 8-1. The Panthers might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won four games by seven runs or more this season.
Brilee McGlothlin spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered only one earned run on seven hits and racked up eight Ks. She has been consistent: she hasn't given up more than one earned run in five consecutive appearances.
At the plate, Larkyn Ivey was incredible, getting on base in all four of her plate appearances with one home run, three runs, and one stolen base. Those three runs gave her a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Carly Reed, who got on base in three of her five plate appearances with two RBI, one run, and one double.
Bloomington South's win was their third straight on the road, which pushed their record up to 6-2. Those road victories came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 2.0 runs on average over those games. As for Bloomington North, their loss dropped their record down to 4-7.
Tuesday's match will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Bloomington North hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .343. However, it's not like Bloomington South struggles in that department as they've averaged .365. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Bloomington North came up short against Bloomington South in their previous matchup back in April of 2024, falling 3-0. Will the Cougars 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.
