Howard Payne softball continued ASC conference play on the road Friday, April 17 with a doubleheader against a strong Hardin-Simmons squad in Abilene, dropping both contests despite flashes of offensive production.

In game one, Howard Payne found a spark in the middle innings, highlighted by a big swing from Siannah Nava. The junior third baseman launched a three-run home run in the fifth inning, driving in Brianna Warriner and Ashley Blaylock to briefly tie the game. Nava finished with three RBIs on the day.

Brianna Warriner added a hit and scored a run, while Ashley Blaylock worked two walks and crossed the plate once. Madison Schroeder and Abeni Nava also contributed hits as the Lady Jackets totaled four on the game.

In the circle, Paris Mederez logged over five innings of work, battling through a tough Hardin-Simmons lineup.

Game two saw an early surge from Howard Payne, as the Lady Jackets plated three runs in the opening inning. Brianna Warriner set the tone with a leadoff double and stolen base, later scoring to ignite the offense. Ashley Blaylock, Siannah Nava, and Alyana Salazar followed with consecutive hits to keep the pressure on.

McKeanne Saenz and Makayla Dunn each drove in runs, while Abeni Nava added a two-RBI performance. Makayla Fuentes provided a spark off the bench with a hit, and Colbi Goodwin chipped in offensively as well.

Howard Payne finished game two with nine hits, showing consistent production throughout the lineup.

Head Coach Bianca Gonzales noted the team's fight despite the results.

"We faced a really tough opponent, but I liked the way we kept competing at the plate," Gonzales said. "We had some quality at-bats and put pressure on them early. Now it's about putting together a full game and continuing to grow as we move through conference play."

Howard Payne will look to build on those offensive positives as ASC action continues.