Softball Recap: Sparta Takes a Loss

Sparta had lost 13 straight at home dating back to last season, but on Thursday they dropped their record down to 1-14 to make it 14. They came up short against the La Crosse Central Riverhawks, falling 9-0. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Riverhawks this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 4-2 back in April.

As for La Crosse Central, the win made it two in a row for them and bumps their season record up to 7-10. That nine run margin sets a new team best for them this season.

For La Crosse Central's part, Carmen Peterson made a big impact no matter where she played. On the mound, she didn't allow a single earned run while striking out 16 over seven innings pitched. Those 16 strikeouts gave Peterson a new career-high. She was also big at the plate, getting on base in three of her five plate appearances with two runs and one stolen base.

In other batting news, La Crosse Central got a big performance out of Ellie Gillitzer, who got on base in three of her four plate appearances with three stolen bases and two runs. That's the most stolen bases Gillitzer has posted since back in April. Norah Holkup was another key player, going 2-for-3 with three RBI.

Coincidentally, Sparta and La Crosse Central will both be playing La Crosse Logan the next time they take the field. The Riverhawks will head out to face the Rangers at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, while the Spartans will head out to face them at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday.