Dillard University Dominates Rust College to make it to the Championship Game

Decatur, Ala. – In an intense softball matchup on April 25, 2025, Dillard University (LA) showcased its offensive prowess, defeating Rust College (MS) with a decisive score of 11-3 at Wilson Morgan Stadium. The game, which lasted just 1 hour and 37 minutes, saw Dillard improve its season record to 19-17, while Rust fell to 12-33.

The game started with Rust College taking an early lead in the first inning as C. Rolle singled through the right side, bringing home K. Sariah. However, Dillard quickly responded in the second inning, capitalizing on several scoring opportunities. Kyiera Torrence drew a walk that pushed in a run, followed by Madison Clark's powerful double to the right side, which cleared the bases and brought in three runs, putting Dillard ahead 4-1.

Rust attempted to close the gap in the third inning with an RBI single by A. Minniewea, but their momentum was thwarted as C. Rolle was tagged out at home. Dillard maintained pressure, extending their lead in the bottom of the third with a two-RBI single from M. Picou and additional runs scored on errors and a groundout.

In the fourth inning, despite Rust's T. Brown scoring on a wild pitch, Dillard continued to dominate. Madison Clark's aggressive baserunning allowed him to steal home, and further fielding errors by Rust enabled Dillard to score two more unearned runs, sealing their victory.

Dillard's pitchers, Jennifer Gress and Mary-Elizabeth Landry, effectively contained Rust's offense, allowing only four hits across five innings. Gress earned the win, improving his record to 8-5 with a solid performance, striking out four and walking two.

Defensively, both teams had their struggles, with Rust committing three errors and Dillard two. However, Rust's errors proved costlier, contributing to several of Dillard's unearned runs.

Dillard's standout performances included Clark, who was instrumental with three RBIs and two doubles, and Mhallayah Picou, who added two hits and two RBIs. The team also showcased aggressive baserunning, with successful steals by Clark, Ca'Terra Bates, and Gress.

This game highlighted Dillard's ability to capitalize on their opponents' mistakes while effectively utilizing their own offensive strengths to control the game. As the season progresses, both teams will look to refine their strategies and address defensive lapses in pursuit of stronger finishes.

-Bleu Devils-