NWF Storms Back to Defeat Shelton State

DOTHAN Ala. – Despite facing a daunting six-run deficit early on, Northwest Florida State staged a remarkable comeback to triumph over Shelton State with an 8-6 victory on Saturday.

The Bucs wasted no time in asserting their dominance, scoring three runs in the top of the first inning courtesy of a triple by Trinity Wilkinson and a single by Lauren Coker. Coker's double in the third inning extended their lead to 4-0.

The Raiders, however, refused to be deterred and staged a dramatic turnaround in the bottom of the fifth inning, tying the game at four runs apiece with Britt Bourgoyne's tag-up, McKayla Ferguson's double, and Sophia Jones' single.In the subsequent inning, Northwest Florida State seized control as Sister Arnold's triple and a crucial error by the Bucs allowed them to pull ahead.

Pitcher Cailyn Heyl played a pivotal role in the Raiders' victory, pitching two innings of flawless baseball, striking out three and walking none. Breana Barnes started the game for Northwest Florida State, surrendering four runs over three innings. For Shelton State, Elizabeth Brooks started but struggled, conceding six runs (one earned) over four and one-third innings.

Jones and Gyvan Hammons were standout performers for Northwest Florida State, each collecting three hits. Jones, in particular, shone with a perfect 3-for-3 performance at the plate, driving in three runs. Ashlyn Shirah showcased her speed with two stolen bases. Defensively, the Raiders displayed impeccable fielding, committing zero errors, with Arnold showcasing her defensive prowess.

The Raiders' undefeated streak continues as they reach a remarkable 12-0 record for the season, marking the second consecutive year they have achieved this flawless start to their campaign.

UP NEXT

The Raiders will be back at home next week with a pair of games against Wallace-Dothan Tuesday, February 13 starting at 2:00 PM.

For complete coverage of Northwest Florida State Athletics, visit nwfraiders.com or follow us on social media: Facebook (Northwest Florida Raiders), Instagram (@nwfraiders) and X (@NWFRaiders)

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