In a thrilling and high-scoring contest on Tuesday, the Okmulgee Lady Bulldogs were unable to hold onto an early lead, ultimately falling to Weleetka 17-9. Both teams displayed offensive firepower, with Weleetka racking up 17 hits and Okmulgee collecting 10.
Weleetka took an early lead in the bottom of the first inning, scoring three runs, including two on a daring steal of home. Despite this strong start, Okmulgee stormed back in the top of the second, scoring eight runs on five hits to flip the game on its head and take an 8-3 lead. The Lady Bulldogs’ rally was highlighted by Makiya Hill’s key walk that drove in two runs.
However, Weleetka responded in the bottom of the fourth, mounting a comeback of their own. They scored eight runs on six hits, with Smith’s tworun double delivering the biggest blow. This surge put Weleetka back in the driver’s seat with a commanding 15-8 lead, which they never relinquished.
Weleetka’s starting pitcher battled through two and two-thirds innings, allowing nine hits and nine runs while striking out three. Meanwhile, the Lady Bulldogs’ offense was led by Dailyn Johnson and Tiah Harjo, who each recorded two hits. Harjo, Kiera Swayze, and Mahayla James were aggressive on the base paths, combining for multiple stolen bases as Okmulgee tallied 14 steals in the game. Despite their efforts, the Lady Bulldogs were unable to overcome Weleetka’s relentless attack.
Defensively, both teams were solid, with neither committing an error. For Okmulgee, Harjo led the way with five chances in the field, while Smith was a standout for Weleetka, making eight plays.
Weleetka’s offensive outburst was fueled by multiple players, who each collected three hits. The team also showcased remarkable patience at the plate, drawing 11 walks. Weleetka’s aggressive base running was a game-changer, as they accumulated an astonishing 31 stolen bases, keeping constant pressure on the Lady Bulldogs’ defense.
Yesterday, the Lady Dogs hosted Spiro, and will travel today to Checotah to face the Lady Wildcats.
— Coming Up for Coach Ed Vaughn’s Lady Dogs • Aug. 16 – @ Checotah
• Aug. 17 – @ Keys
• Aug. 19 – @ Henryetta
• Aug. 22-24 – Okmulgee Festival
• Aug. 26 – @ Eufaula
