Southport hasn't had much luck against Columbus North recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Cardinals will look to defend their home field against the Bull Dogs at 6:00 p.m.
Southport fell victim to Roncalli and their airtight pitching crew on Tuesday. They came up short against the Royals, falling 9-0. Having soared to a lofty 13 runs in the game before, the Cardinals' shutout was a dramatic turnaround.
Meanwhile, Columbus North entered their tilt with Bloomington North on Tuesday with three consecutive wins, and they'll enter their next game with four. They put the hurt on the Cougars with a sharp 15-2 victory. The Bull Dogs' hitters stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most runs they've scored all season.
Payton Morris was a major factor no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out eight batters over five innings while giving up just one earned (and one unearned) run off three hits (and only one walk). She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than one earned run in three consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going a perfect 4-for-4 with one home run, three runs, and four RBI.
In other batting news, Columbus North let Lily Retz and Summer Williams run wild. Retz went 2-for-3 with one home run, three RBI, and two runs, while Williams went 1-for-2 with three runs, one stolen base, and one double. Those three runs gave Williams a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Miley McClellan, who went 2-for-3 with one stolen base, one run, and one double.
Columbus North kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 16 hits. They are 3-1 when they post 11 or more hits.
Columbus North now has a winning record of 5-4. As for Southport, they now have a losing record of 4-5.
Southport might still be hurting after the 10-0 defeat they got from Columbus North in their previous matchup back in April of 2024. Will the Cardinals have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.
