YOUNGSVILLE, La. – The Meridian Community College Lady Eagles took the field this past weekend at the Mardi Gras Classic in Youngsville, Louisiana, facing a competitive lineup of teams in four hard-fought matchups. Despite a tough start, the Lady Eagles finished strong with back-to-back wins, showcasing their resilience and offensive power.

Game 1: Big Third Inning Lifts #21 Parkland College Over MCC

The Lady Eagles opened the tournament against nationally ranked Parkland College, falling 7-1 after a decisive four-run third inning by Parkland. MCC struggled to capitalize on offensive opportunities, with Presley Black leading the team at the plate, going 2-for-3 and driving in the Eagles' lone run. Dakota Haynsworth took the loss, throwing five and two-thirds innings, allowing seven runs (six earned) on nine hits.

Game 2: Lady Eagles Fall in Extra Innings Against Alvin CC

MCC's second game against Alvin Community College was a nail-biter, as the Lady Eagles battled through eight innings before a late run sealed a 4-3 loss. MCC's offense was highlighted by a solo home run from Raegan King and an RBI single from Black. Hannah Capello pitched six strong innings, allowing just two earned runs while striking out two. Despite the tough loss, the Lady Eagles showed grit, staying competitive until the final out.

Game 3: Johnson's Big Day Propels MCC Past Kilgore College

On Saturday, MCC turned things around with a thrilling 6-5 win over Kilgore College. Camry Johnson led the way, going a perfect 3-for-3 with two doubles and a single. The Lady Eagles jumped ahead early with RBIs from King and Hannah Buckley in the first inning, extending their lead throughout the game. Marlee McCalister earned the win on the mound, striking out six over five and two-thirds innings, while Sarah Watson secured the save. MCC racked up 11 hits in the victory and put pressure on the basepaths with four stolen bases.

Game 4: Lady Eagles Close Out Classic with Commanding Win Over Angelina College

MCC capped off the weekend with a dominant 7-3 victory over Angelina College, fueled by a four-run seventh inning that featured back-to-back home runs from Buckley and Paige Berry. King delivered another strong offensive performance, going 2-for-4 with two RBIs. MCC's pitching staff was solid, with Mary Coumbe earning the win after two innings of scoreless relief, while Capello and Haynsworth combined to hold Angelina to just three runs.

The Lady Eagles showed resilience throughout the weekend, bouncing back from early losses to finish the Mardi Gras Classic on a high note. With strong individual performances and key contributions across the roster, MCC will look to carry this momentum forward in the season.

Next up, the Lady Eagles head to Marion, AL to take on 16th ranked Marion Military Institute on Februray 4th.