The Belhaven softball team posted a pair of wins Saturday, defeating Hardin-Simmons 9-7 and Centenary 14-1 in five innings. The Blazers used explosive offense and clutch hitting to secure the victories.
In the first game, Belhaven jumped ahead early, with Melissa Lopera hitting a three-run homer in the first inning and Maryanna Guy adding a solo shot. Hardin-Simmons responded with three runs in the third and took a 7-5 lead in the fifth after a five-hit rally. The Blazers staged a dramatic seventh-inning rally, with Ellie Williamson leading off with a single and Lopera driving in a run with a double. Kaleigh Steverson then hit a three-run homer to walk off with a 9-7 win. Steverson finished 3-for-4 with three RBIs, and Lopera drove in four runs. Karley Rouse started for Belhaven, with LB Nesmith earning the win in relief.
In the second game, Belhaven’s offense continued its surge, scoring 10 runs in the second inning and adding four more in the third to build a 14-0 lead. Melissa Lopera went 3-for-3 with two doubles and two RBIs, while Lauren Dunbar hit three doubles and drove in three runs. Reagan Bryan and Guy also homered in the game. Olivia Burns pitched the final 1.1 innings, striking out three. AR Sharp earned the win, allowing just one run over 3.2 innings with five strikeouts.
The Blazers return to action next week, hosting Millsaps in Riverside Rivalry play. Follow Belhaven athletics on X, Instagram, and Facebook for updates. Supporters can visit Team Green Giving to contribute to the program.
