Lawrence High and Free State haven’t exactly shared similar softball success this spring.

The Firebirds (11-1) defeated Shawnee Mission Northwest for the first time in school history last weekend. The Lions are 1-11, with their lone victory against Leavenworth (0-10).

With the two Lawrence city teams set to clash in a 4 p.m. doubleheader today at Free State, coach Reenie Stogsdill had a simple approach to taking the field.

“We have nothing to lose,” Stogsdill said. “Everyone assumes we’re going to lose, so we’re just going to go out, play the game and see what happens.”

Despite the drastically different records, don’t think Free State coach Pam Pine is taking LHS lightly. In fact, Pine said today’s game scared her more than any game on the schedule to date.

“I know they’re struggling,” Pine said of the Lions. “I’ve been there. My first year, I was 3-17. They’ll probably bring their ‘A’ game and play the best they’ve played against us.”

Junior pitcher Catherine Smith will get the starting nod for Free State, while senior Sydney Seratte will start for Lawrence. Stogsdill said Seratte’s effectiveness in Game 1 would determine if she started the second game. Catherine’s sister, Megan, will start Game 2 for the Firebirds.

Free State swept Lawrence for the first time in school history last season. The teams split two years ago; LHS took both games three years ago.

“It’s the most important game to us,” LHS senior shortstop Lauren Kelly said. “This game would mean a lot to me if we can beat them for my last time.”

Stogsdill said the key to an LHS upset was not walking anyone and continuing the offensive production.

“Free State’s having an awesome year, they have a great team, and they’re well coached,” Stogsdill said. “But we’re not intimidated by them at all. We belong on the same field as them, and I hope we can show it.”

Free State has won several games with an effective small-ball strategy. Of their 11 victories, the Firebirds have won five games with five or fewer runs.