Photo: SDPB
ABERDEEN, S.D. — Castlewood and Hanson traded punches Friday, but a six-run sixth inning propelled the Warriors to a 12-7 victory in the championship semifinals of the SDHSAA Class B Softball Tournament.
Hanson held a 7-6 lead heading into the bottom of the sixth before Castlewood’s offense exploded. Cydni Kudrna sparked the rally with a two-run triple to put the Warriors ahead 8-7. Kayla Goens then reached on an error to score Ciara Kjetland, followed by a clutch two-run double from Natalie Akin. Lilly Jacobsen capped the frame by grounding into a fielder’s choice to drive in the sixth run of the inning.
Claire Horn shut the door in the top of the seventh to secure the victory for the Warriors. Horn pitched a complete game, allowing seven runs on 11 hits while striking out eight.
Castlewood’s offense was powered by four players with multi-hit performances. Morgan Wilson and Sophia Kudrna each finished with three hits and an RBI. Akin added two hits and three RBIs, while Cydni Kudrna contributed two hits and two RBIs.
The Beaverettes were led by Skya White, who went a perfect 4-for-4 at the plate with two RBIs. Jacey Schoenrock added two hits and four RBIs. Schoenrock also pitched a complete game in the circle, allowing 12 runs on 14 hits over six innings.
Castlewood advances to the Class B championship game at 4 p.m. Saturday, where they will face the winner of McCook Central/Montrose and Gayville-Volin. The title game will be broadcast live on SDPB.org/Softball and the SDPB YouTube channel.
WTNSports.com 