Williston hasn't had much luck against Bismarck recently, but that could start to change on Tuesday. The Coyotes will look to defend their home field against the Demons at 4:00 p.m. Expect the scorekeeper to be kept busy: if their previous games are any indication, these teams will really light up the scoreboard.
In Tuesday's Canine Competition, Williston prevailed. They were the clear victors by an 18-1 margin over Watford City on Tuesday. The Coyotes haven't had any issues with the Wolves recently, as the game was their sixth consecutive victory against them.
Morgan Strietzel was a major factor no matter where she played. She pitched five innings while giving up just one earned run off five hits. Strietzel was also big at the plate, scoring two runs while getting on base in all three of her plate appearances.
In other batting news, Mekiah Klumker was a standout: she scored three runs and stole a base while going 2-for-4. Rylee Irgens was another key player, going 1-for-3 with one home run, two runs, and two RBI.
Meanwhile, Bismarck was able to grind out a solid win over Beulah on Monday, taking the game 11-7. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Demons.
Like Williston, Bismarck also got a great game from a two-way player: Mya Jones. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out eight batters over seven innings while giving up just two earned (and five unearned) runs off ten hits (and only one walk). Jones has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks any time she's pitched this season. She was also stellar in the batter's box, scoring two runs and stealing a base while going 3-for-4.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Josie Schell, who went 2-for-3 with two runs, one triple, and two RBI. Another player making a difference was Izzy Owens, who scored two runs while going 2-for-4.
Bismarck now has a winning record of 2-1. As for Williston, they now also have a winning record of 2-1.
The batters for both teams will have to hit smart on Tuesday as both have some strikeout artists on the roster. Williston has been retiring batters left and right this season, having averaged 6.7 strikeouts per game. However, it's not like Bismarck struggles in that department as they've been averaging 6.7 strikeouts. Considering how easily both teams rack up Ks, the hitters on both teams better bring their A-game into this one.
Williston couldn't quite finish off Bismarck in their previous matchup back in May of 2024 and fell 6-4. Will the Coyotes 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.
