ALEXANDRIA, La. — The University of the Southwest opened its four‑game road series at LSU Alexandria on Friday, battling through a competitive doubleheader but ultimately falling in both contests.

In the opener, the Mustangs were locked into a tight pitchers' duel before LSUA capitalized on a fourth‑inning opportunity to plate the only two runs of the game. Southwest's Alexis Belen delivered a strong complete-game performance, allowing just three hits and two earned runs while keeping the Mustangs within striking distance throughout the 2–0 loss. Offensively, Southwest's best chance came in the fourth inning when Layla Stouder recorded the team's lone hit of the game, but LSUA's pitching held firm to preserve the shutout. 

In game two, LSUA used an explosive first inning to take early control, sending eight runs across in the opening frame before adding to their lead in each of the next three innings. Southwest continued to compete, breaking onto the scoreboard in the third with two runs generated through pressure on the LSUA infield, highlighted by Danali Garces reaching on an error that allowed both Kamryn Cantu and Lillian Rodriguez to score. Kilee Raulston paced the Mustangs with a two‑hit performance, and Elizabeth De La Riva added a base hit as Southwest continued to apply offensive pressure despite the 14–2 final. Pitchers Cali Saldana and Jazmynn Hernandez  combined in the circle, working to slow LSUA's high‑tempo offense across the remaining innings.

Southwest now turns its attention to tomorrow's final doubleheader of the series, aiming to build on the competitive stretches and individual highlights from Friday's matchups. First pitch for Game One is scheduled for 11 a.m. at Generals Softball Field.

Head Coach Chris Petroski
"First game was head-to-head. If we had a little more offense, the game would've ended differently. In the second game, we got behind and couldn't catch up. Two more tomorrow so we are prepared to fight."