Softball Game Preview: Benton Central Bison vs. North Newton Spartans

The Benton Central Bison will face off against the North Newton Spartans at 5:30 p.m. on Monday.

Benton Central came up short against Tri-County on Saturday, falling 9-1. The Bison have struggled against the Cavaliers recently, as the game was their third consecutive lost meeting.

Annie Lank

Base on Balls Against

04/26/25 @ Tri-County	1
04/22/25 vs McCutcheon	2
04/14/25 @ South Newton	1

Annie Lank spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered five earned (and four unearned) runs on ten hits. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than two walks in three consecutive appearances.

Meanwhile, North Newton entered their tilt with Knox on Saturday with two consecutive wins, and they'll enter their next game with three. They came out on top against the Redskins by a score of 6-2.

Sydney Rainford made a big impact no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, not allowing a single earned run and allowing only one hit while striking out 11 over six innings pitched. Rainford was also big at the plate, going a perfect 2-for-2 with two runs, one triple, and one stolen base. That triple was her first of the season.

In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Rylynn Klemz, who went 1-for-2 with three RBI, one run, and one double. Callie Williams also deserves some recognition as she got her first hit of the season.

Benton Central's defeat dropped their record down to 2-6. As for North Newton, their victory bumped their record up to 6-1-1.

Benton Central might still be hurting after the 14-0 loss they got from North Newton when the teams last played back in April of 2024. Will the Bison have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.