Polk County Middle School’s softball team continued its impressive early-season run Monday, dismantling Bethel Middle 15-2 in a road contest shortened to four innings.
The Wolverines (4-1) wasted no time establishing control, erupting for six runs in the first inning and adding nine more in the third to secure their fourth victory of the season against a winless Bethel squad (0-4).
Polk’s offensive barrage in the opening frame began with consecutive singles from Kayla Hayford and Kenzie Alm, followed by a walk to Lucy Tessnair that loaded the bases. Hayford crossed the plate on a Bethel fielding error, and Bella Lancaster delivered a timely single that brought home both Alm and Tessnair. Lancaster and Payton Emory later scored on a passed ball and wild pitch respectively, before Kendall Taylor capped the inning with an RBI double that plated Tilly Harris.
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The Wolverines’ nine-run third inning featured several key hits, including Taylor’s two-run double and Tessnair’s two-run single, effectively putting the game out of reach.
Taylor led Polk’s balanced offensive attack, going 2-for-2 with three RBI and a run scored. Lancaster contributed three RBI on a 1-for-2 day, while Emory (2-for-2), Bradley (2-for-3), and Hayford (2-for-4) all had multi-hit performances. Every starter in the Wolverines lineup reached base at least once.
Minda McComas delivered a complete game in the circle, allowing just two hits and two unearned runs while striking out four Bethel batters.
Polk County Middle will look to extend its winning streak when it hosts Hendersonville Middle on Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. at Polk County Recreation Complex.
