Softball splits against Emporia

Missouri Western Griffon softball took on Emporia State Hornets in a doubleheader Saturday, April 3 at the Spring Sports Complex after the first doubleheader against Washburn Ichabod on Friday, April 2 was cancelled due to COVID-19 protocols within their program but has later been rescheduled.

The Griffons split the doubleheader after they dropped game one against the Hornets after playing in extra innings, 4–3 and winning in the second game, 9–3.

The Hornets took the lead early in the first game after having three runs in the second inning, but later being returned by the Griffons in the third inning bringing the game to a tie.

The game was then tied up until the eighth inning after junior Sydni Hawkins, second base for the Griffons dove for the ball but dropped the ball out of her glove after she hit a home run for the Hornets.

Senior Rachel Stewart, right fielder for the Griffons was the only Griffon to have a multi-hit game after she ended the game 3–4 with two RBI.

The Griffons then came in, in game two and swept the Hornets.

Freshman Sierra Culver, right fielder for the Griffons hit the first home run in the first inning for the Griffons in game two with Junior Sydni Hawkins, second base for the Griffons right behind her, scoring the second.That opened up senior Kalyn Damgaard to score as well.

The Griffons kept the two run lead until the fifth inning when two more runs were added bringing them to a four run lead. Junior Sydni Hawkins, both second base for the Griffons, scored one home as well.

Pitcher Kaili Hinds had a no-hitter for the first five innings, but the hornets then responded with three runs bringing the score to 4–3.

The Griffons then had five runs in the sixth inning bringing the score 9–3 sweeping the game.

Sophomore Rian Gere, went 3–3 with two runs and one RBI.

Senior Emma Hoffart had two hits and drove in three runs while Hawkins added two hits and one RBI.

“We realized that the first loss should’ve never happened so we came back with more fire,” Stewart said.

The Griffons have been working hard this season and plan to continue doing so.

“I think coming prepared defensively and playing a strong defensive game will help us in the long run,” Stewart said.

The Griffons are now 17–7 this season and 6–2 in MIAA play. They are on the road this Tuesday, April 6 at noon against Mckendree.