Carl Junction Softball Tops Joplin in Back-and-Forth Contest

JOPLIN, MO — Carl Junction softball entered tonight’s contest with two straight losses under its belt, while the Joplin Eagles were looking to make it three straight wins.

Carl Junction pitcher Kiley Spencer was off to a hot start, with three strikeouts in the first inning alone.

It didn’t take long for the bats to get going, however, as the Eagles were on the board first thanks to an RBI double by junior Ava Wolf.

Wolf’s double would bring in shortstop Maria Loum, who started the third inning with a single up the middle. Loum also showcased some spectacular defense in this one including a diving stop and throw from her knees to record an out at first base.

NEO A&M commit Riley Kelly joined in on the RBI party, as she found a gap out to left field to bring home Wolf for the Eagles’ second run of the night.

Carl Junction had an immediate response on offense, sparked by a single up the middle from Spencer, showcasing her two-way capabilities.

Spencer’s hit put two in scoring position, which set up Ryleigh Palmer for a booming blast out to left field. Palmer nearly had a three-run home run, but the ball dropped down for a ground rule double to tie things up at two runs a piece.

The Bulldogs’ bats continued to bring in runs when it mattered most, ending up with a 5-3 win on the road.

Both squads are back in action on Thursday, September 12. Carl Junction will host Webb City while Joplin hits the road for a matchup against Kickapoo. First pitch is set for 5:00 p.m. in both contests.

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