Chanute, KS – The Panthers powered past NEO with an 8-5 victory Tuesday in Chanute, using a big third inning to seize control and continue the lead. After falling behind 2-0 in the top of the first, the Panthers responded with confidence and composure. The game turned in the bottom of the third when Neosho erupted for five runs on three hits to grab a 5-2 lead. The highlight of the inning came off the bat of Abbi Godfrey, who ripped a bases-clearing triple to spark the rally and energize the Panthers’ dugout. Kamden Bray earned the win in the circle for Neosho, tossing 6 1/3 innings while allowing nine hits. The right-hander struck out five and walked three in a steady performance. Madison Davison came on in relief to help secure the victory. Offensively, the Panthers lineup delivered from top to bottom. Godfrey, batting eighth, drove in three runs and finished 2-for-3 at the plate. Jayden Willard set the tone from the leadoff spot, going a perfect 3-for-3 with a HBP. Favy Najar added two hits in four at-bats as Neosho piled up timely hits throughout the contest. The Panthers also flashed solid defense, turning a double play to halt the NEO threat.
In game two the Panthers showed heart and resilience in game two. Rallying from a seven-run deficit before ultimately falling 12-11 to NEO in a back-and-forth battle. Despite the setback, Neosho’s offense delivered an impressive performance, pounding out 10 hits and nearly completing a dramatic comeback. Trailing big in the fourth inning, the Panthers chipped away at the deficit with relentless at-bats, highlighted by four doubles that helped swing momentum and tighten the score late. Keeley Welch wasted no time making an impact, blasting a solo home run to center field in the bottom of the first to tie the game at 1-1. Kamden Bray added another spark in the third with a solo shot to left, keeping the Panthers within striking distance. Neosho’s biggest push came as they erased the large deficit, showing patience and discipline at the plate. The Panthers drew six walks in the contest, with Delaney Hill and Kamden Bray each earning two free passes. Jayden Willard powered the offense from the middle of the lineup, driving in five runs in a standout 3-for-5 performance. Her timely hitting kept Neosho within reach throughout the high-scoring affair. In the circle, Brylee Northcutt battled in her outing, however, Makenzi Escoe provided strong relief work, tossing 3 2/3 innings while allowing just two runs on three hits and striking out five. Though the comeback came up just short, Neosho’s offensive firepower and determination were on full display in a game that could have easily slipped away much earlier.
The Panthers will be back in action 2/27 and 2/28.
