Apaches Face Grayson College Lady Vikings in Tough Battles

Apaches Face Grayson College Lady Vikings in Tough Battles, Looking Ahead to Growth and Improvement

The Apaches faced a challenging weekend against the Grayson College Lady Vikings, dropping both games in the series with an 8-0 loss in Game 1 and a 10-1 defeat in Game 2. 

Game 1: Apaches Battle but Fall Short

In the opening game of the weekend, the Apaches struggled offensively, managing just four hits. Sydney Farmer provided a spark with a double, while Ileana Hernandez, Daniela Gutierrez, and Trinity Hawkins each contributed a single. Despite showing moments of promise, the Apaches couldn't string together enough hits to push runs across the plate.

Pitching-wise, Sarah Philips started for the Apaches, going 4.1 innings, allowing 7 earned runs while striking out 2. Her effort on the mound kept the team in the game for as long as possible, and despite the challenging outing, Philips showed poise in her first appearance of the weekend. Toni Gabaldon relieved Philips, tossing one inning and allowing 1 run, but the team struggled to generate offense to support the pitching efforts.

Defensively, the Apaches were solid, committing no errors, but the lack of offense made it difficult to mount a comeback. The Lady Vikings capitalized on their scoring opportunities, and despite a strong defensive effort, the Apaches couldn't find their rhythm.

Game 2: A Tough Follow-Up, but Apaches Show Fight

Game 2 saw more of the same offensive struggles, with the Apaches held to just one hit. That hit came from Hernandez, who drove in the team's lone run with a solid single. Payton Bray showed patience at the plate by drawing two walks, but the Apaches just couldn't get the timely hits to bring runners home.

The pitching staff worked hard to keep the game within reach. Kearston Gooch started the game, throwing two innings and allowing 5 earned runs. Cayman Lightner followed with two innings, giving up 3 earned runs. Finally, Jaycee Bullard pitched a brief inning but allowed 2 earned runs. While the pitching staff faced a tough challenge against a strong Grayson offense, they remained focused and continued to battle.

Defensively, the Apaches encountered a few errors, with Trinity Hawkins and Ky-Li Alonzo each recording one. Though these misplays were costly, they are part of the team's learning process and an area the Apaches will work to tighten up as the season progresses.

Looking Ahead:

Although the Apaches faced tough losses against the Grayson College Lady Vikings, the team remains optimistic. There were plenty of bright spots, including Hernandez's clutch RBI in Game 2 and the solid pitching performances from Philips, Gabaldon, Gooch, and Lightner. The Apaches know that with time and experience, their offense will find its rhythm, and their defense will continue to improve.

As they prepare for upcoming games, the Apaches are determined to build on these early challenges. The team has the talent and heart to bounce back, and with more practice and adjustments, they'll be ready to come back stronger.

The Apaches get their chance for a comeback as they face the Lady Wikings again Monday, March 3rd at home for a double header at 1 & 3 pm.