Softball Game Preview: Preston Knights vs. Philip Barbour Colts

Preston hasn't had much luck against Philip Barbour recently, but that could start to change on Tuesday. The Knights will take on the Colts at 5:30 p.m. Philip Barbour took a loss in their last contest and will be looking to turn the tables on Preston, who comes in off a win.

Preston will bounce into Tuesday's game after beating Robert C. Byrd, who they had gone 0-5 against in their five prior meetings. The Knights narrowly escaped with a win as the squad sidled past the Eagles 4-2. The victory was a breath of fresh air for the Knights as it put an end to their three-game losing streak.

Nevaeh West spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered two runs (both of which were unearned) on three hits and racked up nine Ks. She has been consistent: she hasn't given up more than two walks in seven consecutive appearances.

On the hitting side, Sophie Zinn was excellent, going a perfect 3-for-3 with one run and one RBI. That's the most hits she has posted since back in April of 2025. The team also got some help courtesy of Rachel Hamrick, who went a perfect 1-for-1 with one run, one double, and one RBI.

For whatever reason, it's the away team that's had the advantage when Philip Barbour and Lincoln meet (four straight games heading into this one) and that held true again on Thursday. The Colts came up short against the Cougars, falling 19-1.

Payton Holbert was cooking despite her team's loss, going 1-for-2 with one home run.

Philip Barbour's defeat dropped their record down to 0-7. As for Preston, their record now sits at 5-10.

Preston couldn't quite get it done against Philip Barbour in their previous meeting back in May of 2025 as they fell 11-6. Can the Knights avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.