Softball Recap: Clifton Central Triumphs

While Clifton Central's win against Donovan wasn't quite the blowout it was the last time the pair played, they still came out on top. The Comets narrowly escaped with a victory as the squad sidled past the Wildcats 6-5. The win made it back-to-back victories for the Comets.

Chloe Cotter made a big impact while hitting and pitching. She struck out six batters over three innings while giving up just two earned (and one unearned) runs off four hits (and only one walk). She has been nothing but reliable on the mound: she hasn't given up more than two walks in four consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-4 with one home run. That home run marked the first that she has launched this season.

In other pitching news, Laney Bussian looked comfortable as she didn't allow a single earned run over four innings pitched. She has been consistent: she hasn't given up a single walk in five consecutive appearances.

Back at the plate, the team relied heavily on Emily Ponton, who went 3-for-4 with one triple, two RBI, and one run. That's the most hits she has posted since back in May of 2025. Ella Ponton was another key player, getting on base in three of her four plate appearances with one run, one double, and one RBI.

Clifton Central kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 11 hits. They are a perfect 3-0 when they post 11 or more hits.

Clifton Central's record is now 3-11. As for Donovan, the defeat snapped their winning streak at three games and leaves them with a 6-4 record.

Coming up, Clifton Central will look to defend their home field on Wednesday against Manteno at 4:30 p.m. Donovan will be paying especially close attention to the Comets' matchup: after the Comets face off against the Panthers, they'll take on Donovan again at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday.