Softball: Cougars Stretch Win Streak to Seven

With only two Chantilly batters on base all game, and neither advancing to scoring position, the Oakton High softball defense shutout the Chargers for a 1-0 victory Tuesday. 

Mary Kate Mehegan hit the game-winning RBI in the fifth inning with a slap hit through the gap between the third baseman and shortstop to drive in Angie Noviello. 

Starter Allison Davis pitched seven strikeouts, and gave up two hits and no walks.

"We played great defense. [Shortstop] Emily Krisanda made two really good plays in the hole, and [second baseman] Becky Cerva fielded just about everything hit at her," Coach Ray Gordon said. "We left about 10 runners on base, but [Alex Sallberg] is a really good pitcher. I was really proud we had those opportunities. We just couldn't come up with the big hit until Mary Kate came through. When your No. 9 hitter is coming through for you, that's a good thing."

The win keeps the Cougars with an undefeated record in the Concorde District. With three district games left, the Cougars have secured at least second place in the district tournament — giving them a bye to start the tourney and an automatic berth into the Northern Region tournament. 

"So coming up is the first this team has been able to play without pressure on them, so we'll see how they'll respond to that," Gordon said. "I'm hoping they'll relax and play well. We just have such good team chemistry. They battle and that's all you can ask for."

The Cougars will host Bishop O'Connell for a nondistrict game 6:30 p.m. Thursday.