Superior, WI -- This afternoon, the North Central University (NCU) softball team traveled to Superior, Wisconsin to begin their series against the University of Wisconsin-Superior (UWS) Yellowjackets. When the Rams faced the Yellowjackets in the last season, UWS swept NCU in all three games of their series. Today, the Rams struggled to keep pace once again, losing 17-3.
North Central came out determined in the opening game of the series, showing poise at the plate and a willingness to stay aggressive despite facing a talented and deep lineup on the other side. While the final score favored the home team, the Rams generated offensive momentum in key spots and saw valuable contributions from multiple players. After a tough first inning in which defensive miscues allowed their opponent to jump out to an early 6-0 lead, North Central answered back in the top of the second. The rally began with a sharp single to right center off the bat of
Erica Gilles, who has continued to be a reliable presence in the middle of the order.
Delaney Riddle followed by reaching on an error, and then Addison Schroer delivered the first big moment of the afternoon for the Rams—a solid RBI single that plated Gilles and broke up the early shutout. Riddle would later add to the rally with aggressive baserunning, crossing the plate on a heads-up play during a caught stealing attempt. North Central continued to battle in the fifth.
Gabbie Ruzek reached base on a misplayed throw and promptly took advantage of the opportunity, advancing to third on a groundout. Then,
Kelsey Henninger laid down a perfectly executed bunt single—beating the throw and allowing Ruzek to score the team's third run. On the defensive side,
Adison Schroer started in the circle and worked three innings, doing her best to manage traffic on the bases against a relentless offense. After three frames,
Isabela Gallardo came on in relief and held her own—giving up just one hit and no earned runs across a full inning of work. Gallardo also showed command by limiting walks and keeping the ball in play. Though errors hurt North Central early, the team showed resilience and fought for every at-bat. However, despite their efforts, the Rams concluded game one with a final score of 17-3.
Top Performers:
Looking Ahead:
The Rams will continue the series against the Yellowjackets as they play a doubleheader tomorrow. The games are scheduled for 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM.
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