It was a strange softball season opener for Wayland Thursday afternoon in an afternoon doubleheader against Byron Center.

The Wildcats suffered a five-inning defeat by mercy rule, 14-3 in the first game with the Division I powerhouse Bullldogs. They bounced back, however, in the nightcap to take an 8-6 decision.

Freshman Maddy Ludema, younger sister of last season’s ace, Emma Ludema, suffered the defeat on the mound in game one. Sophomore Harmony Laker was the winning pitcher in game two.

Izzy Johnson and Reece Veltman both delivered two-run homers in the nightcap.