Softball Game Preview: Payson Longhorns vs. Gilbert Christian Knights

For the second straight game, Payson will face off against Gilbert Christian. The Longhorns will head out on the road to challenge the Knights at 6:00 p.m. on Friday.

Payson will roll into the match after a wild two-game stretch: they only put up one run on Monday, then bounced right back against Gilbert Christian on Wednesday. The Longhorns were the clear victors by a 15-1 margin over the Knights. Considering the Longhorns have won ten games by more than six runs this season, Wednesday's blowout was nothing new.

Kinikki Smith made a splash no matter where she played. She didn't allow a single earned run while striking out eight over five innings pitched. Smith was also solid in the batter's box, going 2-for-3 with one stolen base and two RBI.

In other batting news, Kassidy Cline was incredible, going a perfect 3-for-3 with three stolen bases, two runs, and one RBI. That's the most stolen bases she has posted since back in March. Caelee Boyle was another key player, going 2-for-3 with two stolen bases, two runs, and one RBI.

Payson always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .586. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Gilbert Christian only posted an OBP of .278.

Gilbert Christian's defeat was their tenth straight on the road dating back to last season, which dropped their record down to 2-18. As for Payson, they now have a winning record of 12-11.

Gilbert Christian's pitching crew has a crucial task ahead of them: Payson hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .393. It's a different story for Gilbert Christian, though, as they've only averaged .212. Will they be able to contain Payson's hitters? Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.