WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. – The West Liberty University softball team opened its home slate Saturday by splitting a doubleheader with Salem, earning a 1-0 win in game one before falling 2-1 in the nightcap at the Hilltopper Softball Complex.
Game 1: West Liberty 1, Salem 0
West Liberty used a strong pitching performance and timely hitting to secure a narrow victory in the opener.
The game's lone run came in the third inning when Jaden Conrad delivered a sacrifice fly to center field, scoring Sara Simon and giving the Hilltoppers a 1-0 lead.
That was all the support Kadence Pettit would need in the circle. Pettit was dominant, tossing a complete-game shutout while allowing just three hits and striking out four without issuing a walk.
Offensively, Paytyn Tucker led the Hilltoppers with a pair of hits, while Simon added a double and scored the game's only run. West Liberty worked six walks and applied pressure on the bases with three stolen bases.
The Hilltopper defense backed Pettit with two double plays to help preserve the shutout.
Game 2: Salem 2, West Liberty 1
Salem answered in game two, capitalizing on early opportunities and holding off West Liberty late to earn the split.
The Tigers scored the game's only two runs in the second inning, taking advantage of a West Liberty error to plate a pair of unearned runs.
West Liberty cut the deficit in the fourth when Conrad came through again, this time ripping an RBI triple to right field to score Simon and make it 2-1.
Despite outhitting Salem 5-3, the Hilltoppers were unable to push across the tying run. Salem's Kendall Lemley went the distance in the circle, limiting West Liberty to one run.
Rylee Mangold pitched well in the loss, allowing just three hits and no earned runs while striking out seven over seven innings.
West Liberty returns to action Sunday as it opens Mountain East Conference play against Point Park in a doubleheader beginning at Noon at the Hilltopper Softball Complex.
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.
