Softball Recap: Riverside Takes a Loss

Riverside had lost four straight at home dating back to last season, but on Thursday they dropped their record down to 2-6 to make it five. They fell just short of the Newport Grizzlies by a score of 10-9. The Rams were not able to repeat the success they had when they faced the Grizzlies earlier this season, when they won 8-4.

As for Newport, their victory ended a three-game drought on the road and puts them at 6-5. With that win, they brought their scoring average up to 6.2 runs per game.

For Newport's part, Lili Hall made a splash no matter where she played. On the mound, she struck out six batters over seven innings while giving up just one earned (and eight unearned) runs off eight hits. Hall has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in five consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going 2-for-4 with two stolen bases, one run, and one RBI.

In other batting news, Bella Boyd was incredible, getting on base in all five of her plate appearances with three runs, two doubles, and one stolen base. Those two doubles gave her a new career-high. Cedar Kirschbaum also deserves some recognition as she snagged her first stolen base of the season.

Looking ahead, Riverside will be playing in front of their home fans against Lakeside at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday. The Eagles have struggled to contain batters this season (they've allowed 10.69 runs per game on average), something the Rams will no doubt try to take advantage of. As for Newport, they are taking a road trip to square off against Davenport at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday. The Gorillas have struggled to contain batters this season (they've allowed 15 runs per game on average), something the Grizzlies will no doubt try to take advantage of.