HATTIESBURG, Miss. - While no team ever wants to lose, there is such a thing as an encouraging negative outcome. Such was the case here Saturday as the XULA softball team gave national powerhouse William Carey all it could handle, despite ultimately falling 7-5 and 2-1 in a doubleheader. 

In the first game, Xavier (3-6) showed a skill for manufacturing runs and getting offense throughout its lineup. The Gold Rush got no extra-base hits, nor did any batter register more than one hit, but the team stayed with the Crusaders until the end. 

Arin Dale (1-for-4, run scored, RBI) and Madison Williams (1-for-2, run scored, RBI) were the top offensive performers. 

Essynce Wallace (0-2) took the loss in a 5-inning effort. 

In the second game, Bella Rivera (0-1) pitched a gem, going all 6 innings and striking out 3 in a tough-luck losing effort. 

Unfortunately for the Gold Nuggets, William Carey pitcher Jayden Sawyer (3-0) pitched a 10-strikeout 2-hitter and kept the previously potent Xavier offense at bay. 

Amireeya Malveaux (1-for-2, RBI) and Lexi McLin (1-for-3, run scored) were XULA's top offensive performers. 

Next up for the Gold Nuggets will be a three-game, RRAC-opening series against Our Lady of the Lake. The teams will play a doubleheader on Friday at the Park of Heroes. First pitch for Game 1 is scheduled for 11 a.m.