CALYPSO — The North Duplin Lady Rebels faced off against the East Columbus Lady Gators in a competitive softball matchup that saw an explosive start from the visitors. The Lady Gators came out swinging in the first inning, quickly putting pressure on North Duplin.
Despite an early strikeout from Rebels pitcher No. 2 Gracelyn Higginbotham to open the game, East Columbus responded with strong hitting. No. 16 Mackenzi Clemmons delivered a key hit that allowed No. 10 Jenna King to cross home plate for the game’s first run. After a pair of walks loaded the bases, the Lady Gators broke the inning open with a powerful hit that cleared the fence, bringing all runners home and giving East Columbus a commanding 5–0 lead in the opening inning.
North Duplin managed to halt the momentum when No. 2 Gracelyn Higginbotham recorded another strikeout to end the inning.
Rebels Look to Answer in the Bottom Half
The Lady Rebels stepped up to the plate for the first time hoping to respond. However, East Columbus pitcher No. 4 Gracie Coyle set the tone early, striking out No. 9 Marissa Bernal to begin the inning.
North Duplin’s No. 5 Wyllow Holmes connected on a solid hit, but No. 3 Aleigh Godwin of the Lady Gators made a strong defensive play to record the out. Moments later, No. 2 Gracelyn Higginbotham of the Rebels drove a deep shot toward center field, but another impressive catch by East Columbus ended the inning and preserved the early lead.
Second Inning Sees Both Teams Battle Defensively
In the second inning, the Lady Gators looked to build on their advantage. No. 5 Ashlynn Smith opened the frame with a hit to reach base, but the Lady Rebels responded defensively. No. 8 Ady Spence made an excellent catch on a hit from No. 4 Gracie Coyle, and the Rebels added another out shortly after.
A steal attempt by No. 8 Skylah Collins of East Columbus was cut short thanks to a strong defensive play from No. 7 Lilly Fulghum of North Duplin, switching possession.
North Duplin found a small spark at the plate. No. 7 Lilly Fulghum reached base after drawing a walk, and later came around to score to put the Rebels on the board and cut the deficit.
Long Ball Powers East Columbus
The third inning continued to showcase strong defensive efforts from both teams. North Duplin’s No. 1 Raegan Herring made a big catch in right field to stop a potential rally by the Lady Gators.
However, East Columbus soon found its power stroke again. No. 55 Sara Coleman launched a solo home run, extending the Lady Gators’ lead. North Duplin ended the inning with a solid defensive play by No. 8 Ady Spence but East Columbus maintained control of the game.
When the Lady Rebels returned to the plate, the Gators’ defense and pitching once again stood tall. No. 4 Gracie Coyle recorded a strikeout, and East Columbus closed the inning with another quick out to keep North Duplin from mounting a comeback.
Rebels Show Fight in the Fourth
North Duplin continued to battle in the fourth inning. The Rebels’ defense recorded two quick outs against the Gators before allowing a late hit from No. 5 Ashlynn Smith.
In the bottom half, No. 5 Wyllow Holmes of North Duplin reached base with a ground ball, and No. 7 Lilly Fulghum followed with a strong hit to center field that helped bring another Rebel runner home, adding a second run for North Duplin.
Gators Seal the Win
East Columbus continued to produce offense as the game progressed. A standout moment came when No. 55 Sara Coleman delivered yet another home run, stretching the Lady Gators’ lead even further.
North Duplin also made a pitching change, bringing No. 7 Lilly Fulghum to the mound in hopes of slowing the momentum. East Columbus continued to pressure the defense, with No. 8 Skylah Collins drawing a walk to keep runners on base.
Despite the Lady Rebels’ effort and several strong defensive plays throughout the game, the Lady Gators’ early offense and timely hitting proved too much to overcome.
Final Score: East Columbus Lady Gators 14, North Duplin Lady Rebels 2
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