Cougars Softball Scores Upset in Postseason Opener
In an exciting match-up, the #5 seeded Frederick Community College Cougars softball team triumphed over the #4 Chesapeake College Skipjacks in a best-of-three series during the First Round of the NJCAA DII Region 20 Softball Championship. The Cougars claimed victory in both games, winning 6-4 and 11-6 on the road.
Game 1:
The Cougars wasted no time asserting their dominance, scoring four runs in the opening innings. Brianna Dehoff, Kaitlin Murphy, and Emma Livingston led the charge with key hits, propelling the Cougars to an early lead. Avery Sickeri's double in the second inning extended their advantage to 4-0. On the mound, Murphy delivered a solid performance, pitching a complete game while striking out six batters. Despite some resistance from the Skipjacks, the Cougars' relentless offense, fueled by Dehoff and Sickeri, secured the 6-4 victory.
Game 2:
Down 6-0 early in the game, the Cougars staged a remarkable comeback in the fifth inning, scoring seven runs to take the lead. Brianna Dehoff lead FCC offensively with three hits, including a crucial double that sparked the Cougars' rally. Pitcher Kaitlin Murphy played a pivotal role in the Cougars' victory, pitching three scoreless innings in relief. Supported by a strong offensive performance from Sickeri and contributions from Ryan Mills, Piper Barnes, and Mackenzie Murray, the Cougars surged ahead to secure an 11-6 win.
With these impressive victories, the Frederick Community College Cougars softball team advances to the Region 20 DII Softball Championship Tournament. They will face the #1 Potomac State College Catamounts in Keyser, WV, on Friday, May 10 at 2 PM, aiming to continue their postseason success.