ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Mission University Softball split an American Midwest Conference doubleheader Tuesday, falling 4–3 in game one before responding with a 2–0 shutout victory in game two over UHSP.
Game One: UHSP 4, Mission 3
Mission struck early and showed patience at the plate but couldn't overcome late power from UHSP in a 4–3 loss.
The Patriots scored in the first inning and added two runs in the fifth, finishing with three runs on four hits while drawing six walks . Despite creating traffic throughout the game, Mission stranded eight runners on base, limiting their ability to extend the lead.
Courtney Merrell led the offense with a 2-for-4 performance and an RBI, while Hailey Presley added an RBI of her own. Cole Smith contributed a sacrifice fly to drive in a run.
Presley also went the distance in the circle, tossing a complete game (6.0 IP) with five strikeouts and no walks . However, UHSP capitalized on key swings, launching two home runs that ultimately proved to be the difference.
UHSP plated runs in the second, sixth, and seventh innings, including a two-run sixth inning that shifted momentum late.
Game Two: Mission 2, UHSP 0
Mission bounced back in game two behind a dominant pitching performance and timely extra-base hitting to secure a 2–0 shutout victory.
The Patriots scored once in the fourth and again in the fifth, totaling two runs on five hits, including four doubles .
Apryl Zeno led the way offensively with a 2-for-3 performance featuring two doubles and an RBI, while Cole Smith added an RBI double. Kloe Hendrickson and Courtney Merrell each recorded hits and scored a run.
In the circle, Kate Potter was outstanding, throwing a complete-game shutout, allowing just three hits over seven innings while striking out five . Potter worked efficiently throughout, limiting UHSP to minimal scoring chances and stranding five runners.
Key Takeaways
- Game One: Missed opportunities (8 LOB) and UHSP's two home runs were the difference
- Game Two: Strong response with extra-base hitting (4 doubles) and a dominant shutout from Potter
Up Next
Mission continues AMC play as the Patriots return home for their next conference doubleheader.
