Spires Fall to Avila in Doubleheader Setback

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. – The University of Saint Mary Spires faced a tough challenge against the Avila Eagles, resulting in a doubleheader sweep for the visiting team. Avila's strong offensive performance and solid pitching led to a 4-0 victory in the first game and a 3-1 win in the second.

Game 1: Eagles' Offense Shuts Down Spires

The opening game saw Avila take control in the middle innings, breaking a scoreless tie with a three-run surge in the fifth. Maya Richards sparked the rally with an RBI single, followed by Stephanie Hayes' RBI double and Myra Megli's RBI groundout. Avila added another run in the seventh inning with Megli's RBI double, sealing the 4-0 victory.

Saint Mary struggled to generate offense, managing only four hits against Avila's pitcher McKayla Cotton. Grace Rose pitched a complete game for the Spires, but the Eagles' timely hitting proved too much to overcome.

Key Highlights (Game 1):

• Grace Rose pitched a complete-game for the Spires.
• McKayla Cotton pitched a complete-game shutout for Avila, limiting the Spires' offense.
• Saint Mary struggled to produce runs, with only four hits in the game.

Game 2: Avila Holds Off Spires' Rally Attempt

The second game started with Avila taking an early 3-0 lead in the first inning, capitalizing on a Saint Mary error. McKayla Cotton's RBI reached base on an error, and Abi Beaman followed with a two-RBI single. Saint Mary responded with a run in the bottom of the first, as Alexis McDaniel singled home Audrey Spellman.

However, Saint Mary was unable to generate further offense. Avila's pitcher, Mackenzie Daniels, held the Spires to just four hits, securing the 3-1 victory. Desarae Chavez started on the mound for the Spires, with Allie Cox relieving her.

Key Highlights (Game 2):

• Avila's Abi Beaman recorded two RBIs, driving in crucial early runs.
• Alexis McDaniel provided the Spires' lone RBI and a walk. 
• Avila took advantage of an early Saint Mary error to take an early lead and never lost sight of that lead.

Up Next:

The Spires are now 12-12 overall and 0-6 in conference play and they will return back at home this weekend to face McPherson at 2pm and 4pm.