Softball Goes 1-1 Against Bulldogs in Conference Opener

SOUTH PRINCE GEORGE, VA – The Richard Bland College Softball team hosted Pitt Community College Friday afternoon for their conference opener. After completion of the games, the Statesmen moved to 5-8 overall, and 1-1 in conference play after winning the opening game 4-1, and dropping the second game 1-2.

In game one, the bottom of the lineup helped Richard Bland capture a 4-1 victory over the Bulldogs. Sydney Thompson, Samantha Barbe, and McKynzi Dawson combined for four of the team's eight hits in the victory. Richard Bland got on the board in the bottom of the second inning after Patricia Lett doubled to right field, and Dawson singled to center field, each scoring one run. Richard Bland scored two runs in the bottom of the sixth on a home run to left field by Lett. Lett drove the middle of the lineup, leading Richard Bland with three runs batted in. The infielder went 2-for-3 on the day. Grace Urban earned the win for Richard Bland. The right-handed pitcher surrendered six hits and one run over seven innings, striking out nine and walking four.

In game two, both teams were strong in the circle, but the Bulldogs were just a little bit stronger at the plate in the 1-2 Statesmen loss. Ava Balli started the game for Richard Bland and recorded 21 outs. Richard Bland was right in it until Pitt doubled in the sixth innings. Richard Bland opened the scoring in the first after Balli doubled, scoring the lone run for the Statesmen. Ashley Beamon, Patricia Lett, Claudia Minetree, Balli, and Dawson each collected one hit for Richard Bland. Balli went 1-for-4 at the plate and led the team with one run batted in. Minetree stole two bases.

The Richard Bland College Softball team next travels to Bryant & Stratton College (VA) on Thursday, March 13^th for a conference doubleheader with the Bobcats. First pitch is set for 12pm.