Hobbs, NM – February 15, 2025
The Southwest softball team hosted Howard Payne for a two-game series on Saturday, sweeping the contests in an exciting day of action.
Game 1: Southwest Rallies Late to Claim Victory
Final Score: Southwest 7, Howard Payne 6
Howard Payne took control early, scoring a run in the first inning and erupting for five more in the fourth to build a 6-0 lead. However, Southwest responded with a late-game rally, scoring in four consecutive innings to secure a comeback win.
Key performances:
- R. Burleson led the offensive charge with a clutch 2-run double, finishing with 3 RBIs.
- L. Stouder and A. Nettles each added a triple, contributing to Southwest's offensive surge.
- T. Parham earned the win in relief, holding Howard Payne scoreless over three innings.
Game 2: Early Offense Propels Southwest to Victory
Final Score: Southwest 11, Howard Payne 8
Southwest came out swinging in Game 2, putting up a four-run first inning and adding six runs in the third to take command. Despite a strong offensive effort from Howard Payne, Southwest held on for the win.
Key performances:
- H. Campos delivered a 5-RBI game, highlighted by a Grand Slam.
- H. Hernandez contributed with two doubles and three RBIs.
- L. Stouder went 3-for-4, scoring three runs to pace the offense.
- Pitching duties were shared, with A. Alverez, T. Parham, and R. Ashford combining to limit Howard Payne to eight runs on 15 hits.
Coach's Take
Southwest's head coach reflected on the series, emphasizing the team's resilience and need for consistency:
"In game 1, we started hitting late and fought hard to come through with the win. As a team, we have to start hitting and putting pressure on the other team by executing when we have runners on. In the second game, our bats started off hot, and we were able to get some runs early. We had some girls really step up at the plate. Now we must build the consistency and fight from the first inning all the way to the end of the game."
