Mountain View hasn't had much luck against Payson recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Bruins will welcome the Lions at 3:30 p.m. Mountain View has given up an average of 9.4 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Tuesday just wasn't the day for Mountain View's offense. They came up short against Uintah on Tuesday, falling 15-0. While getting shut out isn't ideal, the Bruins haven't been shut out since back in March.
Meanwhile, Payson faced Timpanogos in a battle between two of the state's top teams on Tuesday. The Lions blew past the Timberwolves 16-6. The result was nothing new for the Lions, who have now won eight matches by six runs or more so far this season.
Peyton Staheli was a major factor no matter where she played. She struck out 12 batters over seven innings while giving up five earned (and one unearned) runs off six hits. She has been nothing but reliable on the mound: she hasn't tossed less than six strikeouts in five consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, scoring a run while going 1-for-3.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Lucy Jessen, who went 4-for-5 with six RBI, two runs, and two doubles. Those two doubles gave her a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Aydrie Christensen, who went 1-for-5 with one home run, three RBI, and two runs.
Payson kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 13 hits. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now got at least 12 hits in four consecutive games.
Payson pushed their record up to 14-4 with the win, which was their fourth straight on the road. Those road victories came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 3.8 runs on average over those games. As for Mountain View, this is the second loss in a row for them and nudges their season record down to 7-12.
Thursday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Mountain View has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .485. However, it's not like Payson struggles in that department as they've averaged .444. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Mountain View might still be hurting after the 16-1 loss they got from Payson in their previous meeting back in March. Will the Bruins have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.
