Softball Game Preview: Naperville Central Redhawks vs. Downers Grove South Mustangs

Naperville Central hasn't had much luck against Downers Grove South recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Redhawks are taking a road trip to take on the Mustangs at 4:30 p.m. Naperville Central is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 7.7 runs per game this season.

Naperville Central's pitching crew heads into the game hoping to repeat the dominance they displayed on Thursday. They came out on top against Benet Academy by a score of 4-0. The win made it back-to-back victories for the Redhawks.

Shea Meech

Batters Struck Out

04/17/25 vs Benet Academy	8
04/15/25 vs Wheaton-Warrenville South	9
04/12/25 vs Plainfield East	6
04/11/25 @ Plainfield North	5
04/10/25 vs Neuqua Valley	7
+ 2 more games

The result came thanks to Shea Meech's shutout, as she gave up just two hits and racked up eight Ks. She has been consistent: she hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in seven consecutive appearances.

At the plate, Lacey Williams was incredible, going 2-for-3 with one home run, three RBI, and one double. Those three RBI gave her a new career-high. Natalie Lau was another key player, going 2-for-3 with one home run and two runs.

They weren't the only ones working in the home run department: Naperville Central lost a few balls and finished the game with two home runs. They are 3-1 when they post two or more home runs.

Meanwhile, Downers Grove South unfortunately witnessed the end of their three-game winning streak on Friday. They took a 10-5 hit to the loss column at the hands of St. Charles East.

Downers Grove South's loss dropped their record down to 5-4. As for Naperville Central, the win got them back to even at 6-6.

Naperville Central might still be hurting after the 13-5 defeat they got from Downers Grove South in their previous matchup back in April of 2024. Can the Redhawks avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.