Belton, TX - The University of St. Thomas softball team battled through a pair of tightly contested games but came up short against University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, falling 3–1 and 2–1. The Celts kept both games within reach into the late innings, showing strong defensive effort throughout, but were unable to overcome timely runs by the Crusaders in each contest.  The Celts overall record is now 24-7 and are 22-2 in conference.

Game 1: UMBH 3, UST 1

Both teams were locked in a pitcher's duel through the first five innings, with St. Thomas' defense holding strong and limiting scoring opportunities.

Mary Hardin-Baylor broke through in the bottom of the sixth inning, stringing together multiple hits to score three runs and take a 3–0 lead.

The Celts responded in the seventh inning when Ciaira Gonzalez hot an RBI double to right field driving in Avery Pinz, cutting the deficit to 3–1.

St. Thomas continued to fight in the seventh inning but was unable to complete the comeback, as Mary Hardin-Baylor held on to secure the win.

Game 2: UMHB 2, UST 1

Mary Hardin-Baylor opened the scoring in bottom of the first inning, taking advantage of a defensive miscue to bring in an unearned run and take a 1–0 lead.

The Crusaders added another run in the fourth inning, capitalizing on aggressive baserunning to extend their lead to 2–0.

St. Thomas continued to battle and found an opportunity in the seventh inning. Isabella Rios hit a sacrifice RBI when she grounded out to shortstop, allowing Avery Pinz to score and cut the deficit to 2–1.

The Celts threatened late but were unable to push across the tying run, as Mary Hardin-Baylor held on to secure the narrow victory.

Up Next

The Celts will look to bounce back as they continue their schedule at WUSA. They are slated to play a double header against Centenary College (Louisiana) on Saturday, April 18, with first pitch at 12PM, the second game will follow directly after.