OCALA, FL – The College of Central Florida softball team struggled to find its rhythm on Saturday afternoon, dropping both ends of a doubleheader to Miami Dade College at the CF Softball Complex. Despite late-inning runs in both contests, the Patriots fell 9-1 in the opener and 5-3 in game two.
Game 1: Miami Dade 9, CF 1
The Sharks took control of the first game early, crossing the plate twice in the opening frame before exploding for six runs in the second inning. The early 8-0 lead proved to be too much for the Patriots, who struggled to string hits together against the Miami Dade pitching staff.
CF's lone offensive highlight came in the bottom of the fourth inning when Kaylee Riles connected on a solo home run to left field, breaking up the shutout. However, that would be the only run the Patriots could muster, finishing the game with just two hits.
Olivia Douglas provided a steady relief performance, throwing 5.2 innings and allowing only two hits and three unearned runs while keeping the Sharks off-balance for the remainder of the contest.
Game 2: Miami Dade 5, CF 3
The second game of the day followed a similar pattern, as Miami Dade built a steady 5-0 lead through the top of the sixth inning. The Patriots' defense struggled to support starter Alexis Meneely, committing five errors in the contest. Despite the defensive lapses, Meneely (1-5) pitched effectively, throwing 5.2 innings and surrendering nine hits but she did not allow an earned run.
The Patriots showed signs of life in the bottom of the sixth. After Naomi Meyer reached base, Hope Jordan launched a towering two-run home run to cut the deficit to 5-2. CF continued the pressure in the seventh when Abbie Roach tripled and later scored to bring the Patriots within two.
Tiara Chavis returned to the circle in relief after starting game one and was dominant, striking out four batters in just 1.1 innings of work without allowing a hit. However, the late rally fell just short as Miami Dade secured the final out to complete the sweep.
Looking Ahead
With the losses, the Patriots move to 10-12 overall and 2-6 in Citrus Conference play. The team will look to bounce back as they next play Santa Fe College on the road on Tuesday in Gainesville.