Polk County Middle’s softball team capitalized on a six-run second inning and timely hitting to secure an 11-9 victory over Flat Rock Middle in Blue Ridge Conference action Monday at Polk County Recreation Complex.
The Wolverines (7-2) built an early 8-0 lead through two innings before weathering a late-game surge from the Eagles (2-4).
Kenzie Alm led the offensive charge with a perfect 3-for-4 performance that included three doubles, three RBI and three runs scored. Kayla Hayford matched Alm’s hit total, going 3-for-4 with two RBI and two runs.
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Flat Rock committed nine errors, which proved costly throughout the contest.
Lucy Tessnair went the distance in the circle for Polk Middle, striking out 10 batters while allowing just four hits. Although she surrendered nine runs, only six were earned.
The Wolverines jumped ahead in the first inning when Hayford singled and stole second, scoring on Alm’s RBI double. Alm then stole third and eventually scored on a wild pitch for a 2-0 advantage.
Polk Middle broke the game open in the second inning. After loading the bases, Tilly Harris drew a walk to force in a run. While Payton Emory’s grounder resulted in a force play at home, an Eagle error allowed Preslie Bradley to score. Hayford then doubled home another run before two more Eagles errors on Alm’s grounder allowed two additional runs to cross the plate. Alm later scored to cap the six-run frame.
The Eagles mounted a comeback with five runs in the fourth inning and two more in the sixth to narrow the gap to 11-9, but Tessnair closed the door in the seventh to preserve the victory.
Polk Middle added insurance runs in the fourth and sixth innings. In the fourth, Alm delivered an RBI double and later scored on an error. Harris singled to start the sixth-inning rally, eventually scoring on Hayford’s RBI single.
The Wolverines will travel to Flat Rock on Thursday for a 4:30 p.m. rematch with the Eagles.
