Mauled: Panthers dominate Lady Jags

After a solid sweep against an in-state foe, Grambling State, the Lady Jags of Southern University resumed softball play against the Panthers of Prairie View University at Lady Jaguar Field. The Lady Jags came into the tournament 5-3 in conference play and looked to continue the momentum after a beatdown on Grambling. However, it proved to be a challenging matchup.
The game began with sophomore pitcher Kairah Williams taking the mound for the Lady Jags, but her outing was short-lived. Williams struggled early on, giving up a home run to the Panthers, prompting a change in the pitching lineup. Despite the initial setback, the Lady Jags showed resilience as they took to the plate in the second inning, with leadoff and redshirt sophomore center fielder Asia George making an impressive hit to deep left center. However, a remarkable defensive play from PV’s outfielder resulted in George being thrown out at third base.
As the game progressed, freshman pitcher and infielder Alainah Felton took over in relief of Williams. Unfortunately for the Lady Jags, Felton encountered similar difficulties, allowing multiple hits and another home run to the Panthers’ lineup. The fourth inning proved to be particularly challenging for Southern University, as Prairie View capitalized on their offensive momentum, scoring nine runs. Despite their efforts, the Lady Jags struggled to respond, unable to secure runs of their own.
Sophomore utility player Keira Miracle Tilford shared her insights, attributing the loss to Prairie View’s strong hitting capabilities, emphasizing that the Lady Jags were ineffective in producing quality at-bats throughout the game. Additionally, sophomore first baseman Jaeslyn Fraizer echoed this sentiment, pointing to the team’s struggles at the plate as a critical factor in the loss. As the game entered the fifth inning, Prairie View continued to dominate, extending their lead and eventually run-ruling the Lady Jags. The final score reflected the Panthers’ offensive dominance as the Lady Jags would lose 0-18. The Lady Jags would go on to lose two more games against the Lady Panthers.
Despite the outcome, the Lady Jags demonstrated determination and perseverance throughout the game, showcasing their resilience in the face of adversity. The matchup between Southern University and Prairie View University served as a test of skill and strategy for both teams, with the Panthers emerging victorious on this occasion. However, the experience gained from games like this will serve to strengthen the Lady Jags as they continue their season, providing valuable lessons to be learned and areas for improvement.
With each game presenting new opportunities for growth and development, Southern University’s softball team remains ready to rise to the challenges they may face, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to excellence on the field. The Lady Jags’ next matchup will be against the Alcorn State Lady Braves in Lorman, Mississippi from March 29-30. The Lady Jags will return home to play against Jackson State on April 3rd at 5 P.M.