Del Norte hasn't had much luck against Albuquerque Academy recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Knights will look to defend their home field against the Chargers at 4:00 p.m. Del Norte has given up an average of 15.3 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Del Norte is headed into Friday's matchup looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their eighth straight game on Tuesday. They came up short against Bernalillo, falling 24-1.
Meanwhile, while Albuquerque Academy put up some runs on Tuesday, the same can't be said for Hope Christian. The Chargers were the clear victors by a 10-0 margin over the Huskies. The result was nothing new for the Chargers, who have now won seven games by seven runs or more so far this season.
Melissa Purcella made a big impact while hitting and pitching. She didn't allow a single earned run and allowed only two hits while striking out 12 over five innings pitched. She has been nothing but reliable on the mound: she hasn't given up more than two walks in five consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going a perfect 2-for-2 with three runs, two RBI, and one double.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Brooklynn Dominguez, who went 2-for-3 with one home run and five RBI. Those five RBI gave her a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Samantha Walker, who went a perfect 2-for-2 with three runs.
Albuquerque Academy always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .560. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Hope Christian only posted an OBP of .211.
Albuquerque Academy's win was their fourth straight at home, which pushed their record up to 11-9. Those home victories came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 1.3 runs on average over those games. As for Del Norte, their defeat dropped their record down to 3-20.
Del Norte's speedy runners might be the difference in Friday's contest. The Knights have been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 4.3 stolen bases per game. It's a different story for Albuquerque Academy, though, as they've been averaging only 1 stolen bases. Will they be able to secure the bases, or will Del Norte continue to outrun the ball?
Del Norte might still be hurting after the 7-0 loss they got from Albuquerque Academy in their previous meeting two weeks ago. Will the Knights have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.
