On Saturday, the USC Aiken softball team swept Lander with two victories. The first game ended in a 7-1 score, while the second game was won by USC Aiken with a final score of 10-2 in just five innings. These wins brought the Pacers’ overall record to 23-12 and an 8-7 Peach Belt Conference ledger.
In the first game, Jena Dewalt got things started with a single in the first inning that set the stage for Kate Newberry’s double, which drove in two runs and gave USCA an early lead. The Pacers added to their lead in the second inning when Skylar Morley and Ella Stone both reached base and were brought home by Dewalt’s single. Dewalt later hit a home run in the fifth inning, further solidifying USC Aiken’s lead. Austyn Dixon, Grace Ann Thompkins, and Newberry contributed to the final score, resulting in a 7-1 victory for USC Aiken.
In the second game, Dewalt and Lydia Johnson quickly put USC Aiken ahead with a one-run advantage after responding to Lander’s 1-0 deficit. Austyn Dixon’s single increased their lead, while Johnson and Dixon executed a double steal to take it even further. The Pacers finished off their sweep with a final score of 10-2 for Lander after five innings playtime.
Overall, Jena Dewalt was a standout player throughout both games with three hits and three RBIs under her belt. Additionally, Lakyn Phillips pitched an impressive game that allowed only one run on seven hits while striking out seven without issuing any walks
