Softball Recap: Smithfield-Selma Takes a Loss

Smithfield-Selma had lost 13 straight at home dating back to last season, but on Wednesday they dropped their record down to 0-16 to make it 14. They lost 27-0 to the South Johnston Trojans. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Trojans this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 20-0 back in March.

As for South Johnston, the victory (which was their 15th in a row) raised their record to 15-1. Considering they have won 13 contests by more than five runs this season, Wednesday's blowout was nothing new.

For South Johnston's part, Randi Deese made a big impact while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, tossing three innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit. Deese has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than one hit in three consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, getting on base in all four of her plate appearances with four runs and two RBI. Those four runs gave her a new career-high.

In other batting news, South Johnston let Lannah Price and Allison Barbour run wild. Price fired off two home runs, five RBI, and three runs while going 2-for-3, while Barbour went a perfect 3-for-3 with one home run, four runs, and four RBI. Those four runs gave Barbour a new career-high. Olivia Crumpler was another key player, going 3-for-4 with three RBI, two runs, and one triple.

Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Smithfield-Selma will welcome West Johnston at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. The Wildcats' pitching crew has only allowed 2.8 runs per game this season, so the Spartans' hitters will have their work cut out for them. As for South Johnston, they will be playing at home against Clayton at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. The Trojans' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Comets have averaged an impressive 7.5 runs per game this season.