Chambana Sun

Illinois softball faced a challenging game against Arkansas, ranked #11/12, in the Wooo Pig Classic held at Bogle Park. The match concluded with Illinois losing 10-1 in six innings. This defeat places the Fighting Illini at a 9-8 record for the season, while Arkansas improved to 18-1.

The game marked London Park's first collegiate start, where she took the loss. Relief pitching came from Karley Yergler, Danika Frazier, and Megan Nuechterlein. Paige Berkmeyer contributed offensively with an RBI single, going 1-for-2 at the plate. Zoie Howard also made an impact by going 1-for-1 and scoring a run.

Arkansas opened the scoring in their first at-bat and continued to build their lead throughout the game. They added two runs in the third inning and four more in the fifth, extending their advantage over Illinois. Despite efforts from Illinois in the fourth inning, where Adisyn Caryl and Berkmeyer reached base, they could not capitalize on this opportunity.

In the sixth inning, Howard's leadoff single set up a potential rally for Illinois. Berkmeyer's single brought Howard home to score Illinois' only run of the game. However, Arkansas sealed their victory with a three-run home run.

Looking ahead, Illinois will face Iowa in a non-conference game as part of the Wooo Pig Classic. The match is scheduled for Sunday at 10 a.m.

The team noted several statistics: wearing anthracite jerseys resulted in a 3-2 record; they are now 1-2 all-time against Arkansas; they have a 2-2 record in shortened games; and remain winless against ranked opponents this season. Additionally, Paige Berkmeyer achieved her seventh RBI of the year during this game.