Softball Recap: Firelands Takes a Loss

Firelands dropped their record down to 8-10 on Friday, which also ended the team's three-game streak of wins at home. They lost 14-6 to the Black River Pirates. That's two games in a row now that the Falcons have lost by exactly eight runs.

Helen Bolyard and Addison Beal stepped up to the plate in a big way. Bolyard went 2-for-3 with two runs, one double, and one RBI, while Beal went 3-for-4 with two RBI. That double was Bolyard's first of the season. Lexi Schrader was another key player, going 2-for-4 with one double and one RBI.

As for Black River, the victory was the third in a row for them, bringing their record up to 13-7. Considering they have won 11 matchups by more than five runs this season, Friday's blowout was nothing new.

On Black River's side, Abbey Kiser was a major factor no matter where she played. She struck out 11 batters over seven innings while giving up three earned (and three unearned) runs off ten hits (and only one walk). That's the most strikeouts Kiser has posted since back in April. She was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-4 with two RBI and one double.

In other batting news, Mallory Eckert was incredible, going 1-for-5 with two stolen bases, three runs, and three RBI. That's the most RBI she has posted since back in April. Another player making a difference was Remi Dieter, who went 1-for-4 with three stolen bases and two runs.

Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Firelands will welcome Brookside at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday. The Cardinals have struggled to contain batters this season (they've allowed 9.71 runs per game on average), something the Falcons will no doubt try to take advantage of. As for Black River, they will be playing at home against Loudonville at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday.