The Newton County Lady Cougars opened up the softball season by splitting a pair of games last week.
The Lady Cougars dropped a 4-0 decision to Neshoba Central on Tuesday before grabbing their first win in a 4-1 win over Northwest Rankin on Friday.
Newton County is scheduled to return to play on Monday as the open Division 5-4A play at Union. They will then host the Lady Panthers on Tuesday.
Neshoba Central 4, County 0
The Lady Cougars opened the season against the state’s top team with a shutout loss to the Lady Rockets.
Neshoba scored one in the first and three in the seventh inning as they had eight hits.
Newton County had only one hit against Mississippi State signee Aspen Wesley, who struck out 16 and walked just one.
Shelby Anderson had Newton County’s only hit while Landree Amis drew a walk.
Brittany Thomas got the start in the circle as she pitched four innings, giving up one run on five hits while striking out four. Anderson pitched the last three innings and gave up three runs on three hits and two walks while striking out four.
County 4, NW Rankin 1
The Lady Cougars picked up their first win of the season with a three-run win over Northwest Rankin on Friday.
Newton County scored two runs in the first inning and single runs in the third and fourth innings. Northwest Rankin scored its run in the first inning.
Newton County had eight hits in the contest while Katelyn Gipson was 2-for-3 with a triple and two RBIs. Brittany Thomas was 2-for-3 while Lizzy Hollingsworth singles, scored a run and had an RBI. Lanie Phillips and Shelby Anderson each singled and scored a run while Landree Amis had an RBI. Karlye Toldbird had Newton County’s other hits while Brelie Phillips scored a run.
Brittany Thomas got the start and pitched all seven innings, giving up one run on six hits while striking out six and walking just two.
