Haddam-Killingworth has won six straight games at home (dating back to last season), while North Branford has won six straight on the road, but those streaks won't matter much on Friday. The Cougars will host the Thunderbirds at 3:45 p.m. The two teams have allowed few runs on average (Haddam-Killingworth 2.6, North Branford 1.2) so any runs scored will be well earned.
If Haddam-Killingworth beats North Branford with 15 runs on Friday, it's going to be the squad's new lucky number: they've won their past two matchups with that exact score. The Cougars blew past Old Lyme 15-3 on Wednesday. Considering the Cougars have won five contests by more than seven runs this season, Wednesday's blowout was nothing new.
Hannah Reilly was a standout: she went 4-for-5 with three runs, three doubles, and three RBI. The team also got some help courtesy of Caley Napoletano, who went 2-for-5 with one home run, three RBI, and two runs.
They weren't the only ones making solid contact: Haddam-Killingworth kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 18 hits. That's the most hits they've posted since back in April of 2024.
The home team had won the previous four meetings between North Branford and Coginchaug Regional, and North Branford kept the tradition alive. The Thunderbirds walked away with a 5-1 victory over the Blue Devils on Wednesday. The Thunderbirds haven't had any issues with the Blue Devils recently, as the game was their seventh consecutive win against them.
Lauren Vitarisi spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered only one earned run on two hits and racked up ten Ks. She has been consistent: she hasn't tossed less than six strikeouts in seven consecutive appearances.
At the plate, the team relied heavily on Adriana Hills, who went 2-for-3 with two runs, one stolen base, and one double. Lexi Falcioni was another key player, going 2-for-3 with one stolen base and two RBI.
Haddam-Killingworth's victory bumped their record up to 6-1. As for North Branford, their win bumped their record up to 10-0.
Friday's game will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Haddam-Killingworth hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .384. However, it's not like North Branford struggles in that department as they've averaged .392. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Haddam-Killingworth suffered a grim 14-0 defeat to North Branford in their previous matchup back in May of 2024. Will the Cougars have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.
