LOUISIANA, Mo. — The Louisiana Lady Bulldogs bats were silenced on their season opener and senior night celebration. Falling to the Paris Coyotes 5-0, the Lady Bulldogs came up just short on multiple scoring opportunities late in the game.

Despite the impressive Louisiana defense and pitching efforts, the team was unable to score due to an impressive performance by Paris pitcher Grace Hatton. Hatton struck out sixteen allowing no runs. Her dominating pitching performance came with a handful of walks, allowing the Bulldogs to find themselves in scoring position but they failed to string together hits at the right time.

Emily Powell took the mound for Louisiana holding Paris to only one run going into the sixth inning. The Coyotes strung a few hits together and took advantage of walks, pouncing on the Bulldogs in the top of the sixth inning. Powell allowed three runs before transitioning to third base as freshman Ty Campbell took the mound. Campbell allowed one run and then shut a rallying Paris team down with a double play to end the inning.

Going into the bottom of the seventh inning the Bulldogs had some momentum following another double play in the top of the inning. Ashlynn Tredway lead off the inning with a hard-hit line drive to the third baseman, recording the first of the Bulldog’s last three outs. After a bunt from senior Emma Inglis the Coyotes recorded their second out of the inning, bringing Emily Powell to the plate. Powell was walked and stole her way to third base, placing herself in scoring position. Paris Coyote’s Grace Hatton recorded her sixteenth strikeout ending the game.

Following the game, Louisiana honored seniors Emma Inglis, Annine Sanders, and Jaidyn Wommack. The athletes received a bouquet of flowers and were escorted by family members. Senior night, which is normally celebrated at the end of the season, was moved to the beginning of the season in an attempt to avoid any possible cancellations. The Lady Bulldogs play again on Thursday in Bowling Green against the Lady Bobcats.