Houghton University softball suffered a pair of tough losses Wednesday in Melbourne, Fla., falling 11–0 to Misericordia University in the afternoon and later 1–0 to John Carroll University in a pitcher's duel. The Highlanders were outpaced offensively in both contests but showed competitive effort, especially late in the nightcap.
Game 1 — Misericordia University 11, Houghton 0 (5 innings)
In the first of two matchups on Wednesday, the Highlanders were unable to contain a powerful Misericordia offense that plated runs in four innings to build a decisive lead. The Cougars jumped out early and never looked back, scoring in every frame through the fourth to cruise to an 11–0 victory.
Scoring Summary & Key Players:
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Misericordia struck first and tallied 4 runs in the 1st inning with multiple RBI hits, forcing Houghton into an early deficit.
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The Cougars added 7 more runs over the next three innings behind timely hitting, finishing with 15 hits in the game.
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Houghton's lone extra-base hit came from Kelley Burnett, who doubled in the contest.
Houghton Stats & Pitching:
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The Highlanders managed just 1 run on 1 hit offensively and were held scoreless across five innings.
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Houghton pitchers Rebecca Oates, Abigail Pitts and Kareena Ulfig battled but were tagged for 11 runs (10 earned) on 15 hits.
Game 2 — John Carroll University 1, Houghton 0
In the nightcap, Houghton found itself in a tight pitchers' duel with John Carroll, where a lone run in the 6th inning proved to be the difference. Both teams struggled to generate offense early, but the Blue Streaks broke through late to secure a narrow victory.
Scoring & Offensive Notes:
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The game's only run scored in the 6th inning on an RBI double by N. Bradley, bringing home M. Smith.
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Houghton managed 2 hits in the contest, with Sarah McArthur recording the lone Highlander hit and a stolen base.
Pitching & Defense:
