Softball Recap: Royall Comes Up Short

Royall dropped their record down to 3-3 on Saturday, which also ended the team's three-game streak of wins at home. They fell just short of the Melrose-Mindoro Mustangs by a score of 9-7. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest defeat the Panthers have suffered since May 1, 2024.

As for Melrose-Mindoro, they pushed their record up to 5-1 with the win, which was their third straight on the road. Those road victories came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 12.3 runs over those games.

For Melrose-Mindoro's part, Opal Buchanan was a major factor no matter where she played. She didn't allow a single earned run while striking out six over 6.1 innings pitched. Buchanan was also solid in the batter's box, going 3-for-4 with one run, one double, and one RBI.

In other batting news, Cooper Zeman was a standout: she went 2-for-4 with two stolen bases, two runs, and one double. That's the most stolen bases she has posted since back in May of 2024. Madeline Frauenkron was another key player, going 2-for-3 with three runs.

Coming up, Royall will venture away from home to face off against Brookwood at 5:00 p.m. on Monday. The Falcons will roll in looking for their fourth straight win, something the Panthers surely won't give up without a fight. As for Melrose-Mindoro, they will be playing in front of their home fans against Alma Center Lincoln at 5:00 p.m. on Friday.