Dillard (LA) Battles Rust (MS) in a Close Contest: Rust Edges Out in the Final Innings

OXFORD, MS– On April 18, 2025, at Oxford High School, Dillard (LA) faced Rust (MS) in a tightly contested softball game. Despite an impressive late-game rally by Dillard, Rust held on for a narrow 3-2 victory.

The game began with both teams struggling to make an offensive impact through the first four innings. Rust broke the stalemate in the third inning when C. Rolle delivered an RBI single, giving Rust a 1-0 lead. Rust's pitcher, L. Joshua, delivered an exceptional performance on the mound, going seven innings and allowing just three hits while striking out seven.

Dillard responded in the top of the sixth inning. De'Asia Davenport and Haley Weatherspoon, who were instrumental in Dillard's offensive efforts, both scored, tying the game at 2-2. Ca'Terra Bates contributed with an RBI double, while Weatherspoon brought in another run, showcasing Dillard's determination.

However, Rust was quick to respond. In the bottom of the sixth, K. Stamps hit a crucial double, and with the help of C. Rolle's hitting prowess, Rust managed to regain the lead with a run, bringing the score to 3-2.

Jennifer Gress pitched all six innings for Dillard, managing to keep Rust's batters at bay for the most part, recording nine strikeouts and only one earned run. Unfortunately, errors on the field, including those by De'Asia Davenport and Ca'Terra Bates, proved costly for Dillard.

Despite Dillard's best efforts in the seventh inning, Rust's defense, led by the steady pitching of L. Joshua, held firm, ultimately securing the victory.

Overall, the game was a showcase of strong pitching and timely hitting. Rust's ability to capitalize on Dillard's fielding errors and their resilience in the final innings proved to be the deciding factors in this closely contested matchup.

-Bleu Devils-