Softball Recap: NEN Has No Trouble Against Ponca

NEN came out on top against Ponca on Tuesday thanks in part to the team's impressive four-run fifth inning. NEN blew past Ponca 8-0. NEN hasn't had any issues with Ponca recently, as the game was their eighth consecutive win against them.

Anna Jacobs made a splash no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, not allowing a single earned run and allowing only one hit over five innings pitched. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than one earned run in three consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-2 with two runs, one stolen base, and one RBI. That's the most runs she has posted since back in August.

In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Riley Ross, who went 2-for-4 with two stolen bases, one triple, and two RBI. That's the most stolen bases she has posted since September 2nd. Karlie Rutar was another key player, going 2-for-3 with three stolen bases, one run, and one RBI.

NEN's record is now 16-9. As for Ponca, they have traveled a rocky road recently, having lost seven of their last eight matchups. That's put a noticeable dent in their 9-17 record this season.

NEN will be playing at home against North Bend Central at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. The Tigers will aim to continue their three-game streak of scoring more runs each game than the last. As for Ponca, they will take on Boone Central at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday.