The No. 1 Southern Illinois University softball team was defeated 6-2 by No. 2 Belmont in the Missouri Valley Conference Championship. Belmont opened the scoring with solo home runs, taking an early lead. The Salukis responded with a two-run home run by Jackie Lis but could not overcome Belmont's final surge of three insurance runs. Three pitchers saw action for SIU, while Belmont remained error-free throughout the game.

By the Numbers
  • Southern Illinois had 4 hits and 2 runs, with Jackie Lis contributing a two-run home run.
  • Belmont tallied 10 hits and 6 runs, with the decisive blow being a three-run home run.
Yes, But

Despite a strong pitching performance from SIU's McKenzie Newcomb, who delivered two scoreless innings, the team struggled offensively to capitalize on their scoring opportunities.

State of Play
  • The game was tightly contested, with SIU remaining within a run until the final inning.
  • Southern Illinois scored their runs through a single home run, highlighting a lack of offensive consistency.
What's Next

The loss ends SIU's run in the MVC Championship, prompting the team to reflect on areas for improvement as they head into the offseason.

Bottom Line

SIU must enhance their offensive approach in order to convert scoring opportunities more consistently if they aim to contend for titles in future seasons.