Shaking off ‘rust’ – E.A. Sports Today
Alexandria Softball Team Triumphs Over Oxford in Home Opener
After a 13-day hiatus, the Alexandria Valley Cubs showcased their resilience and skill, defeating the visiting Oxford Yellow Jackets 11-4 in their home opener. Coach Brian Hess acknowledged the “rust” from the long break, initially feeling concerned about the team’s performance. However, the players found their rhythm, particularly in the fourth inning, where they scored five runs to seize control of the game.
Allyssa Hunt emerged as a standout, hitting a two-run home run that highlighted the team’s impressive late-game surge. The win marked a significant turnaround for Alexandria, who had previously lost 7-6 in their season opener against Pell City. Despite the challenge of adapting after a long break, the team benefited from live-arm practices, including a session with former Valley Cubs’ star, Rylee Gattis, which helped build their confidence.
Oxford started strong, scoring early with Madison Murphy’s RBI triple in the first inning. However, their inability to capitalize on opportunities, alongside several errors, hampered their performance. Coach Wendy McKibbin remains optimistic despite the team’s struggles, focusing on growth and improvement as the season progresses.
Overall, Alexandria’s victory not only reflects their determination but also sets a positive tone for the remainder of the season as players like Hunt aim to finish strong in their final year.
Read the complete article here: https://www.easportstoday.com/2025/03/06/shaking-off-rust/