High School Softball: Kelso proves too much for Toledo in cross-classification tilt (UPDATED)

PHOTO GALLERY — 3A Lassies strike early, hold off 2B Riverhawks' rally in 7-3 win

Kelso’s Skylar Richie (7) rips a hard line drive toward third, but Toledo’s third baseman, Camryn Hurley (2), times her jump perfectly to make the catch before the batter can leave the box during a non-league game on Tuesday, April 21, at Lassie Beach. The Lassies were eventually able to find a few gaps in the Riverhawks’ defense on the way to a 7-3 win. / Photo by Skyler Smith for Blast Zone Media

Skyler Smith for BlastZoneMedia.com / blastzonenews@gmail.com

3A/2B Prep Softball / Report

LASSIE BEACH — It wasn’t your typical matchup on McMahon Field on Tuesday afternoon. Under cold, gray skies with low-hanging rain clouds typical of a Pacific Northwest spring evening, the Kelso softball team welcomed Toledo to K-Town for a cross-classification contest smack dab in the middle of their respective league schedules.

Facing one of the top teams in the 2B ranks, the 3A Lassies turned in a composed and complete performance to put some distance between themselves and the pesky Riverhawks from upriver in a 7-3 win at Lassie Beach.

In a game that quickly tilted in favor of the hosts, Kelso set the tone early and never fully allowed Toledo find its rhythm. The Lassies utilized timely hitting, patience at the plate, and steady pitching to secure the win and hand the ‘Hawks just their second loss of the season.

“It was important because this is a good Toledo team,” Kelso head coach Dean Sorenson said. “Kylie (Killett) was hitting her spots, especially that outside pitch, and our defense made some really nice plays behind her.”

It was a competitive showing for a Toledo team that continued to battle despite falling behind early. And to be sure, playing from behind is not something the Riverhawks have had much opportunity to get used to so far this spring.

“We don’t quit,” Toledo head coach Jeff Davis said. “We got down early, but we kept competing, had some good defensive plays, and got a big swing late. That’s something we can build on.”

But with its Cowlitz River neighbors in town looking for an upset, Kelso wasted no time applying pressure early.

— VIDEO: Kelso’s Brianna Wesemann delivers a bases-loaded hit to center field to drive in two runs during a non-league matchup against Toledo on Tuesday, April 21, at Lassie Beach. After striking out in a similar situation earlier in the game, Wesemann responded with a key at-bat to extend the Hilanders’ lead in a 7-3 victory. / Video by Skyler Smith for Blast Zone Media —

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