Breese Central extended their losing streak to four on Friday, dropping their season record down to 3-14 in the process. They were a single run away from ending the streak, but they lost a 5-4 heartbreaker at the hands of the New Athens Yellow Jackets. The Cougars were given a dose of their own medicine in this game as the Yellow Jackets apparently hadn't forgotten their loss the last time these teams played back in April of 2024.
Madison Ahle was huge no matter where she played even without the win. She looked comfortable on the mound, tossing six innings while giving up just one earned (and four unearned) runs off six hits. Ahle was also solid in the batter's box, going 2-for-3 with one double and one RBI.
In other batting news, Cece Toennies was cooking despite her team's loss, going 2-for-4 with one stolen base, one run, and one double. Another player making a difference was Karli Thole, who went 2-for-4 with one stolen base, one run, and one double.
As for New Athens, they pushed their record up to 7-3 with the win, which was their fourth straight at home. Those home victories came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 1.8 runs on average over those games.
On New Athens' side, Bethany Dachsteiner spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered four earned runs on seven hits and racked up nine Ks. Dachsteiner has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up a single walk in four consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, Nora Hager was excellent, going 1-for-4 with two RBI, one run, and one double.
Looking ahead, Breese Central will head out on the road to challenge Roxana at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday. As for New Athens, they will be playing in front of their home fans against Okawville at 4:30 p.m. on Monday.
