By Cort Reynolds

HARROD__The Bluffton High School softball team defeated local rival Allen East 6-2 in the Northwest Conference lidlifter on Thursday, April 9.

Bluffton led 3-1 after four innings, then clinched the victory with a three-run sixth.

The Pirate girls improved to 2-2 overall and 1-0 in the NWC with the rivalry road win. AE dropped to 0-5 overall and 0-1 in NWC play after the defeat.

Pirate Peyton Worcester pitched a complete game to earn the win. She struck out 11 Mustangs and walked only one over seven innings. She scattered nine hits and gave up zero earned runs. 

“Well, Peyton Worcester probably pitched a game of her life,” said head coach Brad Prater. “She was hitting her spots and letting our defense make a play. The defense, even though they made some errors, was pretty solid as well. 

“We went in with the mindset to get aggressive with our bats and base running, which we accomplished,” he continued. “Usually the first pitch at bat is a good one so instead of wasting it, swing the bats. Our strikeouts tonight (total of 4) showed. 

“But again, Peyton pitched one hell of a game which made things a bit easier,” he added.

Bluffton senior Macy Schaadt and junior shortstop Greta Myers rapped out three singles apiece, and each drove in a run.

Catcher Karleigh Davis smacked three singles, stole four bases, drove in three runs and scored twice while drawing two walks.

Freshman second sacker Elana Navarro smacked two hits and scored twice.

Tala Gipson singled and scored a run. First baseman Camryn Fruchey contributed a walk and one run.

“Just an all-around great effort by them all tonight, and maybe because it was our first conference game of the year,” Prater noted.

The Mustangs were out-hit 13-9 by the Pirates. Bluffton drew five walks.

AE left eight runners on base. Bluffton stranded 11 and swiped five bags.

The Pirate girls are slated to visit Carey Friday, then host Liberty-Benton (4-4) for a doubleheader Saturday.

WP-Worcester LP-Wireman