MARTINSVILLE, VA — Patrick & Henry Community College softball earned a split Tuesday afternoon at Martin Field, rolling past Richard Bland College 16-4 in the opener before dropping a tightly contested 1-0 decision in the second game.

The Patriots showcased explosive offense in Game One, using a massive second inning to seize control early.

After scoring five runs in the opening frame, P&HCC erupted for 10 more runs in the second. Sophomore Allison Brooks (Stuarts Draft, Va.) drove in a run with a single, sophomore Kylie Cooper (Wirtz, Va.) added a two-run single, freshman Trinity Aherron (Danville, Va.) cleared the bases with a three-run double, sophomore Lily Carola (Union, W.Va.) drew a bases-loaded walk, sophomore Hannah Haynes (Virginia Beach, Va.) followed with a two-run single, and sophomore Hannah Frink (Vinton, Va.) added another run after tagging up.

The Patriots totaled 11 hits in the opener, with Brooks, Haynes, and Aherron collecting two hits apiece. Brooks, Aherron, and Cooper each drove in three runs, while the Patriots remained aggressive on the bases with eight stolen bases.

Carola earned the win in the circle, striking out eight over four innings. Freshman Trinity Custer (Chatham, Va.) added a scoreless inning in relief.

Game Two turned into a pitcher's duel, with sophomore Aris Smith (King George, Va.) delivering another strong outing for the Patriots. Smith struck out 11 batters over seven innings, allowing just one run and no walks.

The game remained scoreless until the sixth inning when Richard Bland pushed across the lone run of the afternoon.

Freshman Brooklynn Hicks (Covington, Va.), freshman Sierra Custer (Grottoes, Va.), and Cooper each recorded hits for P&HCC, while the Patriots also turned a double play defensively.

Head Coach Robbi Campbell praised the team's response in the opener and resilience throughout the day.

"We did a lot of good things today," Campbell said. "Our offense came out aggressive in the first game, and we competed hard in the second against a quality opponent. We'll keep building and stay focused on finishing strong."

P&HCC returns to Region 10 Division III action on Saturday, April 25, hosting Surry Community College for a conference doubleheader at 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. at Martin Field. Prior to Game One, the Patriots will hold a 1:30 p.m. dedication ceremony for the new scoreboard at Martin Field, honoring Gary Collins, Susan Collins, and Stifel in recognition of their generous donation.

For schedules, recaps, and statistics, visit phccsports.com.