Lincoln-Way Central rallied with a five-run fifth inning to defeat Providence Catholic 6-5 in a home tournament softball matchup.
The game took place April 2, 2026, at Lincoln-Way Central High School in New Lenox.
The Knights broke through in the fifth after trailing for much of the game, stringing together timely hits to seize control. Lainey McLaughlin led the offense with a home run and two RBIs, delivering the biggest swing during the decisive inning. Carly Karales added two hits and an RBI, while Jenna Lee contributed an RBI double. Juno Lundquist and Mia Degliomini each scored as Lincoln-Way Central capitalized on its opportunities. The Knights finished with eight hits and showed resilience in the middle innings to flip the momentum.
Annelysia Reina anchored the effort in the circle, allowing just one hit and no earned runs across five innings while striking out three. Lauren Podkul closed out the final two innings as Providence Catholic attempted a late rally.
Providence Catholic scored three runs in the seventh to tighten the game, but Lincoln-Way Central held on defensively to secure the win.
Lincoln-Way Central returns April 11 against Glenwood at 11:00 a.m. at Lincoln-Way Central High School
