Softball Recap: Newton Takes a Loss

Newton extended their losing streak to three on Thursday, dropping their season record down to 4-5 in the process. They lost 11-1 to the Vernon Vikings. If the Braves were looking for revenge after losing 8-7 to the Vikings when the teams met back in May of 2024, then they'll just have to keep looking.

Newton saw three different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Jaida Long, who went 1-for-3 with one home run.

As for Vernon, the win (which was their fifth in a row) raised their record to 7-4. Those victories came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 9.0 runs over those games.

On Vernon's side, Miranda Ebbighausen made a splash while hitting and pitching. She struck out 13 batters over seven innings while giving up just one earned run off three hits. Ebbighausen has been nothing but reliable on the mound: she hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in seven consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going 4-for-5 with one RBI.

In other batting news, Kaitlyn VanBlarcom was incredible, going 2-for-5 with three stolen bases, two runs, and two RBI. Those RBI marked the first that she has brought in this season. Hailey Hanshaw was another key player, going 3-for-4 with two RBI and one double.

Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Newton will head out to take on Sussex County Tech at 4:00 p.m. on Monday. As for Vernon, they will venture away from home to square off against Pompton Lakes at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday.