Sometimes it's both not your day, and then again it is. That's how things shook out for the lady Eagles varsity softball team in their up and down, back and forth, frustration filled match-up against the North Iowa Bison at Greenwood Park on Wednesday, June 28th.
It was a game that tested the players' mental fortitude, as the Eagles had to overcome a series of defensive errors that allowed the Bison to capitalize on their mistakes. All the friction made for an exciting matchup that repeatedly looked like it might go the Bison's way. However, the Eagles' resilience and determination proved to be the defining factor in this thrilling matchup.
Right from the start, the game proved to be a challenging one for Eagle Grove, as the Bison took advantage of two errors in the opening inning to secure a two-run lead.
Despite that shaky start, the Eagles settled down and displayed their offensive power in the third inning. Crystal Flores set the tone by launching a double over the left fielder's head, igniting the Eagles' offense. Chloe Steil's subsequent walk and run-scoring singles from Addy Jeske and Braxton Steil helped Eagle Grove turn the tide, taking the lead 3-2. Another run was added to their tally due to a wild pitch from the Bison's pitcher.
But then, thanks to yet another Eagle Grove error North Iowa managed to tie up the game in the fifth. And then the Bison were able to shift the momentum back into their favor, with the help of still more errors from the Eagles, in a sixth inning when the Bison's first three hitters reached base (on errors) – allowing them to plate three runs and regain the advantage.
But the Eagles wrenched control back in the bottom of that same inning when the Eagles offense again rose to the challenge! With two outs and their lead intact, Addy Jeske stepped up to the plate and delivered a line drive single to center field, bringing home two more runs and extending their lead. Brooklyn Osborn, the Eagles' reliable pitcher, shut down the Bison in the seventh inning with a 1-2-3 performance, securing the hard-fought victory for Eagle Grove.
The game was a tale of two teams with varying performances throughout. North Iowa capitalized on the Eagles' defensive errors to score in the first, fifth, and sixth innings. However, Eagle Grove showcased their offensive prowess in the third and sixth innings, driving home seven runs and ultimately emerging victorious with a final score of 7-6 for the Eagles.
"This was another game that tested our mental toughness," said Coach Jim McLaughlin. " These games this week are showing our players just what they are capable of. This is the type of
offensive ball we want to be playing as we enter postseason play."
McLaughlin also commended his players for their performances, in another game where every batter reached the base. "We have gotten some very well balanced offense this past week," he said. "Everyone is contributing."
And yet, McLaughlin admitted, "it was a frustrating game defensively as we committed six errors that led to all of their runs." Adding, "we need to be more consistent on the defensive side of the ball but our offense is really starting to click.
The Eagles have good reason to be proud of this win. It's their second season win against the 13-7 Bison, who were having a very good year. Osborne earns the distinction of being the game MVP for her performance shutting the Bison down in the 7th to clinch the win, and for her seven game strikeouts. Addyson Jeske also earns recognition as a leading Eagle for her performance at bat, swatting out two runs, making three RBIs, and stealing two bases.
