Carbondale Reporter

Southern Illinois University's softball team secured a 3-0 victory against Illinois State in the second game of their conference series on Saturday. This win marked their second consecutive shutout against their Missouri Valley Conference rivals.

"Our offense has been very timely," said head coach Jen Sewell. "You worry about offenses getting tight in the first weekend of Valley play. People try to change pitchers on us, but we just keep coming with adjustments."

Erin Lee, Emily Williams, and Addi Baker each contributed RBIs to the game's scoreline. The pitching duo of Kiana McDowell and McKenzie Newcomb was instrumental in maintaining the shutout, allowing only six hits while striking out four batters.

The Salukis took an early lead in the first inning when Emma Austin scored off a flyball from Lee. They extended their advantage in the third inning with Williams driving Anna Carder home and Baker grounding out to bring Jackie Lis across the plate.

Newcomb, along with her counterparts from Illinois State, kept both teams' offenses quiet for the remainder of the game, securing Southern Illinois' win.

The final game of the series between Southern Illinois and Illinois State is scheduled for Sunday at noon.

Fans can follow updates on Southern Illinois University’s softball team through various social media platforms or by downloading their mobile app.