Chambana Sun

Karley Yergler delivered a standout performance for the Illinois softball team, securing her first complete game shutout of the season in a 5-0 victory over Saint Louis at Eichelberger Field. This win brought the Fighting Illini's record to 10-9, while the Billikens fell to 7-9.

Yazzy Avila led Illinois offensively with a perfect day at the plate, going 2-for-2, including a home run and two RBIs. Taylor Porter also contributed significantly from the leadoff position with a 2-for-3 performance.

Yergler's effort on the mound improved her record to 4-2. She allowed only three hits and struck out three batters during her complete game.

The Illini took an early lead in the second inning when Avila initiated a rally with two outs. After reaching second base, she scored on Porter's single that put runners on first and third. Alaina Miller followed up by helping Avila steal home, giving Illinois a 1-0 lead.

In the fourth inning, Ava Moore hit her second triple in as many games and was promptly driven home by Avila's homer, extending Illinois' lead to 3-0. The sixth inning saw further scoring from Adisyn Caryl and Ellie Haggard with RBI singles that secured a comfortable 5-0 advantage.

Despite Saint Louis putting two runners on base in the seventh inning, Yergler maintained composure and helped secure back-to-back outs to end the game decisively.

Illinois wore navy jerseys for this match-up, improving their record to 5-2 when donning those colors. Historically dominant against Saint Louis, they are now undefeated at 5-0 against them all-time. This game marked Yergler's second complete game and first shutout as an Illini pitcher.