Carbondale Reporter

Southern Illinois University's softball team secured a 6-3 victory over Bradley at Charlotte West Stadium on Saturday. The win marked SIU's two-game lead in their three-game series against the Braves.

"I thought we showed up in a really good mindset today," said SIU head coach Jen Sewell. "I asked the captains last night and talked to a few players about where is our adrenaline and energy from Tuesday and Wednesday night. And I thought they captured that today. Came out ready to go and paying attention."

In a game defined by key performances, SIU's Emily Williams delivered a crucial grand slam, driving in four RBIs. Amanda Knutson also contributed with two hits in three at-bats. Pitcher Kaytee Dahlstrom earned her sixth win, recording eight strikeouts over five innings.

The scoring opened in the fourth inning with Bradley taking the lead through a solo home run. However, SIU responded in the fifth inning when Jackie Lis tied the game at 1-1 with a single, followed by Williams' grand slam to establish a 5-1 lead. Bradley narrowed the gap with two runs in the sixth inning, but SIU extended their lead when Knutson's grounder allowed Mikaela Coburn to score, resulting in a 6-3 advantage.

In the final inning, SIU's pitcher McKenzie Newcomb closed the game, securing her second save of the season and confirming the team's victory.

The teams are scheduled to face off again on April 13 for the series finale at 12 p.m.

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