Softball Game Preview: Hoggard Vikings vs. Garner Trojans

The Hoggard Vikings will challenge the Garner Trojans at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. Hoggard's pitching crew has only allowed 3.8 runs per game this season, so Garner's hitters will have their work cut out for them.

Topsail hit Hoggard with a six-run third inning on Tuesday, which goes a long way in explaining the final result. The Vikings took an 8-3 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Pirates.

Hoggard saw four different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Macey Ciamillo, who went a perfect 3-for-3 with one home run, two runs, and two doubles. Logan Ulrich was another, going 3-for-4 with two RBI.

Meanwhile, Garner posted their closest victory since May 24, 2024 on Tuesday. They sure made it a nail-biter, but they managed to escape with a 2-1 win over Cleveland. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Trojans.

Gabriella Czuczuk was a major factor while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, pitching seven innings while giving up just one earned run off six hits. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than two walks in three consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, getting on base in three of her four plate appearances with one RBI.

In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Gaby Mizelle, who went 2-for-3 with two doubles and one run. That's the most doubles she has posted since back in March of 2024.

Hoggard has been struggling recently as they've lost six of their last eight contests. That's put a noticeable dent in their 8-9 record this season. As for Garner, their victory bumped their record up to 14-6.

Hoggard came up short against Garner in their previous matchup back in May of 2024, falling 5-0. Will the Vikings have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.