Fayette, Mo. – The Central Methodist softball program secured a doubleheader sweep over Missouri Valley College on Tuesday at Reardon Family Field, claiming a 2-1 victory in game one before erupting for a 10-0 run-rule win in game two.
With the pair of wins, the Eagles improve to 31-14 overall and 17-7 in conference play. MVC falls to 7-35 and 4-19 in conference play.
Game 1: – Central Methodist 2 - Missouri Valley 1
Central Methodist leaned on timely power and a strong outing in the circle to edge Missouri Valley in a tightly contested opener.
The Eagles struck early in the bottom of the first inning when Elizabeth Palumbo launched a two-run home run to right-center field, scoring Joely Crider and giving CMU a 2-0 advantage.
Missouri Valley responded in the third, capitalizing on a wild pitch to bring home its lone run of the game, but that would be all the offense the Vikings could muster.
Karlie Barnum was dominant in the circle, tossing a complete game while allowing just two hits and one run. She walked one and struck out three to earn her 15th win of the season.
Offensively, Central Methodist tallied six hits, with Palumbo accounting for both RBI. Maddie Holly, Emma King, Kinlei Boley, Rachel Brandt, and Brianna Craig each added a hit in the win.
Game 2: – Central Methodist 10 - Missouri Valley 0 (5 innings)
The Eagles carried their momentum into game two, exploding for 10 runs on 15 hits to secure the run-rule victory.
Central wasted no time getting on the board, plating three runs in the first inning behind RBI efforts from Holly, Madison Roberts, and Boley.
The offense continued to roll in the second, adding four more runs highlighted by a two-RBI double from Palumbo and an RBI single from King to stretch the lead to 7-0.
CMU tacked on three additional runs in the third inning, with Palumbo delivering again and Roberts driving in her second run of the game to cap the scoring at 10-0.
At the plate, the Eagles were led by a balanced lineup. Kaysie Jolley went two-for-two with three runs scored, while Crider added two hits and two runs. Palumbo finished with two hits, including a pair of doubles, and two RBI. Roberts was a perfect three-for-three with two RBI, and King contributed two hits and an RBI.
In the circle, Haley Cotter was in control throughout, tossing a complete-game shutout over five innings. She allowed just four hits while striking out four and issuing no walks.
Up Next:
Central remains at home to host Baker University Friday, April 24 for a doubleheader beginning at 3:00 p.m. at Reardon Family Field. The Eagles will hold their second senior-day celebration at the conclusion of game two.
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