Injuries and illness ravaged Randolph-Henry High School’s varsity softball team last week, contributing to a 23-3 home loss to Amelia County High School.

It was the third loss in a row for the Lady Statesmen after they started the season 1-1.

R-H Head Coach Amy Hamlett noted that three players were sidelined due to injury and two due to illness, leaving the minimum of nine active players Thursday.

“Despite our loss, the girls came together stronger as a team,” she said. “They showed heart.”

Alexis Spencer had three bunts, while Kimberly Horsfall, Alyssa Rapole, Anna Grace Cary and Hannah Pascita each had one hit.

Hamlett said that because of the team being shorthanded, “the girls had to step up and play different positions than they would normally play.”

She added that her players know what they need to work on, “and when they are under pressure, sometimes they crack. I just see so much potential from them, and I believe in each one. They are on the team for a reason, and I believe with a little more experience as time goes on, they will persevere through and surprise us all.”

The Lady Statesmen (1-4) visit Goochland High School on Friday at 5 p.m.