The Lady Toppers took the lead early and never let up on Thursday, topping Mississippi Valley State 9-0 at the WKU Softball Complex.

The game was called in the fifth inning due to WKU’s big lead — the Lady Toppers scored in every inning, including a five-run second.

WKU (26-13-1) had a strong afternoon at the plate, recording nine hits to go with nine runs. Senior outfielder Kelsie Mattox, who had two hits and four RBI, said it was nice to see the offense get hot.

“It feels great going out and getting some hits, people getting RBIs, going into this weekend, because this weekend’s a big rebound weekend for us,” Mattox said after the game.

Junior pitcher Janna Scheff was spot-on for much of the afternoon. She held the Devilettes scoreless and gave up just one hit for the game late in the fifth inning.

Scheff, making just her third start of the year, said she was pleased with her performance on the mound.

“With the balls I just had to adjust and everything, but overall I’m satisfied with how the game went,” she said.

The Lady Toppers were hot from the start on Thursday. After holding MVSU (7-31) scoreless in the top of the first inning, they plated two runs in the bottom of the frame, with Mattox and senior infielder Amanda Thomas each picking up an RBI.

The second inning went in WKU’s favor as well. The Lady Toppers loaded the bases early and drove in five runs during the bottom half of the inning. Mattox picked up three RBI on a double with the bases loaded, with Thomas and senior infielder Olivia Watkins accounting for the other two runs.

WKU picked up another run in the third inning when freshman outfielder Amber Williams scored after a wild throw from MVSU catcher Andie Martin during a stolen base attempt went into the outfield, and a solo home run from sophomore Bethany Oglesby in the fourth inning extended WKU’s lead to 9-0, the final score.

The Lady Toppers start a road stretch this weekend, facing Louisiana-Monroe for a three-game series starting Saturday.

Tudor said picking up a win on Thursday was important, as the Lady Toppers will not play at home again until April 22.

“Momentum is key,” she said. “Going in on a winning note is huge, and we have a nice, fun road trip coming up.”