Hobbs, NM — On a blustery Friday afternoon at home, Southwest Softball battled but came up short in both ends of a conference doubleheader against Xavier (LA). Despite strong defensive efforts and timely hits, the Mustangs couldn't overcome late-game surges from the visitors, falling 5–1 in Game 1 and 6–3 in Game 2.

Game 1: Xavier Capitalizes on Middle Innings in 5–1 Win

Southwest kept the game close through four innings, but Xavier broke through with a three-run fifth that made the difference. Pitcher A. Belen worked all seven innings for the Mustangs, allowing 12 hits and five runs while striking out five​.

Offensively, Southwest scratched across their lone run in the sixth, highlighted by a sacrifice fly from H. Hernandez. E. Martinez reached base twice, and Y. Rodriguez and R. Burleson each collected hits. However, the Mustangs stranded eight runners and couldn't find the big swing to shift momentum.

Game 2: Late Rally Falls Short as Xavier Takes Game Two 6–3

In the second game, Southwest again found themselves in a tight contest before Xavier pulled ahead with four runs in the sixth. The Mustangs responded with two in the bottom of the fifth and one in the sixth, but couldn't match the burst​.

K. Raulston, L. Stouder, and H. Hernandez delivered hits in the clutch, while E. Pinion and D. Garces helped generate late-inning pressure. R. Ashford pitched five solid innings before A. Belen came in for relief.

Southwest was held to six hits in Game 2 but showed improved plate discipline with two walks and more consistent contact against Xavier's rotation.