Panthers Outmatched in Series Sweep

The Philander Smith Panthers struggled to hold down the Wiley College Wildcats, who swept them 11-6, 14-2, and 27-5 in Marshall, TX, this past weekend in the Historical Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference.  

In Game One, the Panthers took a 2-1 lead into the third inning behind the play of Junior Third Baseman Elliot Sheppard and Sophomore Infielder Elijah Cook.  Sheppard hit a single into left field, scoring Kyler Richie for the first run and advancing Cook to third. Then a successful double steal pushed Cook across the plate for an early 2-0 lead.  Freshman Pitcher Tyron Brickhill  (2-3), worked an effective two and one-third innings, striking out four before surrendering five runs in the decisive third to end his day on the mound and giving way to Sophomore Pitcher Ronnie Smith.

In Game Two, the Panthers were subdued early, surrendering eight unanswered runs over the first two innings before falling 14-2.

In Game Three, the Panthers were outscored again in the first two innings 14-2, a deficit that they could not overcome.

The highlight for the Panthers was Elliot Sheppard, who, through nine plate appearances, scored two runs with five hits and two RBIs, along with drawing two walks.

The Panthers will return home to Lamar Porter Field this Tuesday afternoon, March 17th, to face NAIA number 9 Crowley's Ridge.  First pitch is set for 12:05 p.m.