Softball Game Preview: Purchase Line Red Dragons vs. United Lions

Purchase Line and United are an even 5-5 against one another since May of 2016, but likely not for long. The Red Dragons will take on the Lions at 4:30 p.m. on Friday. Purchase Line's hitters haven't had much luck over their past three contests, but Friday's match will give them a chance to turn things around.

Having struggled with six defeats in a row, Purchase Line turned things around against Marion Center on Thursday. They skirted past the Stingers 2-1. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win the Red Dragons have posted since March 27th.

Rylee Mahaffey

Batters Struck Out

05/01/25 vs Marion Center	7
04/29/25 @ Marion Center	8
04/28/25 vs Curwensville	7
04/25/25 @ River Valley	6
04/23/25 vs River Valley	8
04/22/25 @ Homer-Center	5

Rylee Mahaffey spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered two runs (both of which were unearned) on four hits and racked up seven Ks. She has been consistent: she hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in six consecutive appearances.

On the hitting side, Purchase Line's victory was truly a team effort as three different players contributed at least one hit. One of them was Alorra Phillips, who went 1-for-3 with two RBI.

Meanwhile, United was not able to break out of their rough patch on Thursday as the team picked up their 21st straight loss dating back to last season. They came up short against Portage, falling 11-0.

United's defeat dropped their record down to 0-16. As for Purchase Line, they now have a winning record of 8-7.

Purchase Line was able to grind out a solid win over United in their previous matchup back in March of 2024, winning 11-6. Will the Red Dragons repeat their success, or do the Lions have a new game plan this time around? We'll find out soon enough.