MACOMB, Ill. - Western Illinois Softball closed out a competitive doubleheader over the weekend, showing flashes of offensive strength despite falling in both games against Tennessee State on April 6th. 

In game one, the Leathernecks battled but ultimately dropped a 3-7 decision. Pitcher Audrey Clark went the distance in the circle, striking out five while allowing just one earned run. Offensively, Maria Luna led the way with a 1-for-2 performance, including three RBI's from a Home Run in the sixth inning to plate Western Illinois' only runs. Defensively, the team was sharp, committing no errors and turning key plays to keep the game within reach.

Game two turned into an offensive push for Western Illinois, who tallied 11 hits and pushed five runs across the plate in a tight 5-7 loss. Ruby Tarr and Payton Brown were apart of the force in the middle of the lineup, going 2-for-4. RyLee German added a dynamic presence in the bottom of the order, finishing 2-for-3 with a double and one run scored.

Despite the offensive surge, the Leathernecks struggled to contain the opposing bats. Pitchers Libby Spaulding and Kathryn McChristy combined for four strikeouts but surrendered six hits and six earned runs. Audrey Clark entered in the seventh inning, only allowing one hit to close the game.

Though the results didn't fall in their favor, the Leathernecks demonstrated resilience and firepower at the plate, signs that they remain a threat as Ohio Valley Conference play continues. WIU Softball finishes the series against Tennessee State on Monday, April 7th, at 1 p.m. in Macomb, Illinois. 

FOLLOW THE LEATHERNECKS 
For all the latest information on Leatherneck Softball, please visit GoLeathernecks.com. For up-to-the-minute updates, follow the Leathernecks on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and Facebook.