ADA, Okla. – The East Central University softball team opened the weekend on a high note, securing both ends of the doubleheader on Friday with final scores of 3-1 to clinch the GAC series victory over Northwestern Oklahoma State University.
 
With the wins, the Tigers improved to 17-20 overall and 8-14 in conference play.
 
Starting pitchers Taylor Spence and Lauren HerrNeckar were a force in the circle, effectively containing the Rangers' offense to only two runs across 14 innings. Spence got the first win of the day with a stellar complete game, allowing just one hit while striking out an impressive nine batters, a new career high for the senior. HerrNeckar contributed to the series triumph by surrendering only one run in her complete seven-inning game, registering a season-high seven strikeouts.
 
Despite Northwestern's 13 hits throughout the day, the Tiger defense remained steadfast, playing a crucial role in securing the victories.
 
Offensively, ECU was powered by Jami Watson who delivered crucial home runs in both games that propelled the Tigers to victory.
 
After trailing 1-0 early in the first game, Watson blasted a three-run homer in left center field that sealed the win. In the second game, Watson's solo home run in the second inning gave ECU the initial 1-0 lead, which they maintained until the end. Emily Bingham and Caton Muncy bolstered the game two victory with Bingham's fielder's choice RBI plating the Tigers' second run while Muncy's solo homer in the sixth inning extended ECU's advantage to 3-1.
 
Jami Watson led the charge with four hits and four RBIs while Rikki Hadley also contributed significantly with four hits, including a flawless 3-for-3 performance in game one.