CLERMONT, FLA. – The University of Sioux Falls Softball team opened their Florida trip with a doubleheader, dropping a tough 7-5 contest to Western Oregon before being shut out 7-0 by Wilmington. Despite solid offensive showings in the first game, the Cougars struggled to generate runs in the nightcap.

GAME 1: WESTERN OREGON 7, SIOUX FALLS 5

After a scoreless first two innings, Western Oregon surged ahead with a four-run third inning. USF fought back with five runs of their own, but two late runs by WOU in the sixth sealed the game. Hanna Raethz led the offense with a multi-hit game.

KEY PERFORMERS:

• Hanna Raethz: 2-for-2, double, 2RBI
• Maddi Duncan (L, 0-2): 3.0 IP, 4 ER, 2 K

GAME 2: WILMINGTON 7, SIOUX FALLS 0

USF struggled offensively in the second game, managing just five hits against Wilmington's strong pitching. Despite solid contact from Hannah Soderbeck, the Cougars couldn't push any runs across. Wilmington took an early lead and never looked back, securing the shutout.

KEY PERFORMERS:

• Hannah Soderbeck: 2-for-3, triple
• Hannah Strickland: 2.1 IP, 2 ER

UP NEXT
The Cougars (1-5) will look to bounce back as they take on Franklin Pierce University tomorrow at 3:15pm (CST).

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