West Liberty University’s softball team fell to Fairmont State University in a double-header on the road last Monday. The Lady Toppers gave the hosts a tough challenge but the Falcons were able to hold on to secure both wins 2-7 and 2-3.

After finishing out-of-conference play at 2-4, with both wins coming against Salem University, West Liberty University proceeded to split their series with Notre Dame College (0-2 L, 4-1 W), sweep their doubleheader against Alderson Broaddus University (7-0 W, 5-0 W), and split their doubleheader against West Virginia State University this past weekend (0-3 L, 6-3 W). After falling to Fairmont state on-the-road on Monday, the ladies hold an overall record of 8-8 and are currently sitting fourth in the MEC.

The in-conference success has been a collective effort from the Lady Toppers with exceptional work from Kat Donzella, Katie Beeman, Annie Patterson, and Riley Binnington. On the offensive side, Donzella and Beeman are the potent 1-2 punch the Hilltoppers rely on to produce the bulk of their offense. At the three spot, Donzella is hitting .381 with 1HR and 8RBI with Beeman following, she is seeing herself produce a .452AVG and 12RBI. The combined firepower of the two sluggers are without a doubt a reason for the Hilltoppers success.

On the pitching side, Patterson gives the Hilltoppers a consistent chance to win each time she steps on the mound. In 24IP, Patterson holds a 1.12ERA with just three runs surrendered. Binnington has also seen success in the 18 innings she has pitched, holding a 2.50ERA and a 3-1 record.

Other players shining for the Hilltoppers include Allie Cook, Laural Saunders, Conner Assif, Haley Collett, Taylor Bonnett, and Makenzie Amend.

With the remainder of the regular season games coming against in-conference opponents, it is critical that WLU continues their success they have shown early en-route to the championship game if they want to mimic their 2019 success. Next up for the Hilltoppers is a doubleheader at home against Frostburg State University. The Frostburg Bobcats currently hold the top spot in the MEC with a 6-3 record overall. The games will take place at 2 p.m. And 4 p.m. this Friday April 2.
Come out to cheer on your Lady Toppers this Friday!