SALEM, Va. — Averett University softball split a conference doubleheader with Roanoke College on Tuesday, earning an 8-0 win in Game 1 before falling 9-4 in Game 2.
In the opener, Averett (19-8, 4-3 ODAC) used a strong start and dominant pitching to secure the shutout victory. The Cougars scored three runs in the first inning and never looked back, adding runs in the second, third and fourth innings to build an 8-0 lead.
Junior Kadence Woodlief led the offense with two hits and two RBIs, while sophomore Brianna Brooks added a two-RBI single in the first inning. Freshman Hailey Akers also contributed with an RBI, and several players chipped in hits as Averett totaled eight.
In the circle, senior Hannah Zabik was outstanding, tossing a complete-game shutout while allowing just four hits and striking out three to improve to 11-2 on the season.
Game 2 saw Roanoke (11-13, 4-6 ODAC) respond with a big offensive performance to salvage the split. Averett jumped out early with runs in each of the first three innings, including a two-RBI triple from junior Carson Bradsher to take a 4-0 lead.
However, Roanoke answered with a seven-run third inning to take control of the game and never relinquished the lead.
Bradsher finished Game 2 with three hits and two RBIs, while senior Kailey Gates added three hits. Brooks also drove in a run for the Cougars, who outhit Roanoke 12-10 but left nine runners on base.
The Cougars travel to Virginia Beach, Virginia on Saturday for a conference doubleheader against No. 1 Virginia Wesleyan University beginning at noon.
