The RHS softball team went 1-1 this week, defeating Ridgewood 11-2 on April 7 before falling to Morris Knolls 10-3 on April 8. The split brings Randolph’s overall record to 3-1 on the season.

Randolph v. Ridgewood, Tuesday, April 7

The Rams began the week powerfully in their away matchup against Ridgewood. Randolph was the first to get on the board when Daniella Gizienski laid down a sacrifice bunt that scored two runs, giving Randolph early momentum.

“I loved how we didn’t let the long bus ride to Ridgewood make us tired or lazy,” senior captain Kayleigh McClain said. “Everyone was ready to go and focused on starting off the game on a strong note.”

Senior pitcher Breanna Colburn earned the win, allowing just one hit and two runs (zero earned) over 4 2/3 innings while striking out five. McClain later entered in relief to secure the save.

Randolph’s offense was also powerful at the plate. Senior captains Cassidy Smith and Hayley Arigo were a force in the lineup, each gathering two hits while batting back-to-back.

Randolph v. Morris Knolls, Wednesday, April 8

The next day, Randolph hosted but came up short in a 10-3 loss to Morris Knolls. Randolph battled back during the game and tied things up in the third inning after two singles helped even the score. The tying run came off a single by Smith.

Arigo helped guide the middle of the lineup, driving in two runs for Randolph. The number three hitter finished the day 1-for-2 at the plate.

“I believe that the effort from every player was very high,” Smith said. “Whether it was diving for balls in the outfield or having long at bats, we showed that we are able to compete with any team and we are just a few inches and a few plays from that game being very close. Overall, our energy was high and we need to continue into our next game with the same energy level.”

Despite the loss, the Rams aim to build on what they learned from both games moving forward this season.

“Our goals for the rest of the season are to keep picking each other up and communicating, along with playing under the lights,” Arigo said.  “Communication is a big part of the game; it helps us keep energy high, make more plays, and stay confident in ourselves and each other.”

Randolph will look to recover in its next matchup on Saturday, April 11, at 10 a.m. against Sparta at Brundage Park.