LEANDER, TX – The Temple Tem-Cats softball team hit the road on Saturday for a dual-scrimmage test at Leander High School, showcasing a high-powered offense in a dominant win over Vandegrift before hitting a speed bump against a potent Leander lineup.
Game 1: Temple 14, Vandegrift 4
The Tem-Cats’ bats were on fire early as they dismantled the Vandegrift Vipers. Madyson Combs set the tone for the afternoon, turning in a stellar 3-for-5 performance at the plate with three runs scored and two RBIs.
Temple jumped out to a quick lead in the first behind RBI hits from Combs and Brenna Thomas, but Vandegrift answered back with a three-run homer to take a temporary 3-2 lead. That lead didn't last long. The Tem-Cats "flipped the game on its head" in the second inning, exploding for six runs. Kyleigh Juarez provided the spark with a clutch two-RBI single.
The onslaught continued in the third with RBI doubles from London Armour and Glory Foreman. Armour was a force in the cleanup spot, going a perfect 2-for-2 with two doubles and three RBIs.
Stat Highlights:
London Armour: 2-2, 2 2Bs, 3 RBI, 2 R (Started on the mound, 2 IP, 1 K)
Brenna Thomas: 2-3, 2B, 2 RBI, R
Ava Machuca: 3 Walks (Team total: 10)
Game 2: Leander 18, Temple 1
The second half of the doubleheader proved more difficult as the Tem-Cats ran into a buzzsaw against the Leander Lady Lions.
The game started with a literal bang for Temple when Madyson Combs launched a solo home run to left field in the first inning. However, the Leander offense responded with a relentless 18-hit barrage. The Lady Lions put up six runs in the first and seven in the second to put the game out of reach early.
Despite the tough scoreline, the Tem-Cats continued to compete. Saniya Maxwell and Combs recorded the lone hits for Temple, while the pitching staff battled through a disciplined Leander lineup that drew six walks.
Looking Ahead
While the day ended with a split, the Tem-Cats showed they have the plate discipline and power to compete with top-tier programs. The preseason tune-ups are now officially in the rearview mirror.
Temple opens the regular season on the road this Monday, February 9, as they travel to take on the Robinson Rockets. First pitch is scheduled for 6:45 PM.
