Chambana Sun

Illinois softball faced a setback at Bogle Park, losing to the 11th/12th ranked Arkansas team with a score of 12-4 in six innings during the Wooo Pig Classic on Friday night. This result leaves Illinois with an 8-7 record for the season, while Arkansas advances to 16-1.

Lauren Wiles pitched for Illinois, completing her second full game this year. Ella Cushing was notable offensively, achieving a 2-for-3 performance at bat, including a home run and two RBIs.

Arkansas initially took the lead with a two-run homer in the first inning. Illinois responded in the next frame as Paige Berkmeyer earned a walk and Cushing hit a home run, tying the game at 2-2.

Arkansas reclaimed their advantage with an RBI triple in the second inning and added three more runs in the third. Despite efforts from Illinois, which included another rally attempt led by Berkmeyer and Cushing's single, Arkansas maintained their lead.

The sixth inning saw Arkansas score six additional runs, concluding the game with a decisive victory over Illinois.

Looking ahead, Illinois is preparing for a rematch against Missouri State, scheduled for 12:30 p.m.

Illinois wore navy jerseys during this match and now holds a 4-2 record when wearing them. The team also fell to 2-2 all-time against Arkansas and is currently 0-2 against ranked teams this season. Notably, Paige Berkmeyer has reached base safely in ten consecutive games, while Ella Cushing hit her second home run of the year. The team has also dropped to 2-1 in shortened games.