By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

THIBODAUX – After falling to a pair of top, upper-classification foes to begin the season, Riverside’s softball team got back to the business of winning with victories over Thibodaux and De La Salle this week.

The Rebel bats came alive in a 12-0, 10-run rule win over De La Salle at Riverside Tuesday and a 9-6 victory at Thibodaux Wednesday.

“It’s big for us,” said Riverside coach Kristy Hebert. “When we jumped out to an early lead against De La Salle, I think everyone finally relaxed.”

On a chilly night in Thibodaux, it was difficult for pitchers from either side to grip the ball.

Rebel starter Destin Vicknair improved to 2-2 on the season.

Offensively, she helped her own cause by going 2-for-4 with two RBIs.

Kelsi Roussel also went 2-for-4 with two RBIs. Kaitlyn Millet was 3-for-4 with an RBI.

Riverside led 3-2 entering the fifth then started to gain some separation.

Katie Bailey collected her first hit of the day, and the Rebels advanced the runner to second and third on a steal and a bunt by Kori Bourgeois. Vicknair singled home a run, then Roussel collected a hit.

Millet knocked in a run, and Aimee Williamson sacrificed home the third and final run of the inning to put Riverside ahead 6-2.

Vicknair (1-2) and Chelsey Stein combined to throw a two-hitter and strike out nine in five innings in the team’s win over De La Salle.

Millet hit a three-run home run. Bourgeois, Roussel and Vicknair each collected two hits and two RBIs.

Taylor Terrio was 2-for-3 with three steals.