EMPORIA — The Iola High softball team wrapped up its season with a split at Emporia on Thursday night.
The Mustangs (6-13) fell behind early and were never able to claw back in an 8-2 loss in game one. In game two, Iola scored early and often and Elza Clift was dominant in the circle, only allowing two runs on three hits in a 7-2 victory.
Iola opens the Class 4A Regional playoffs Tuesday Atchison/Maur Hill Academy.
Game one
Iola fell behind early, 2-0, before Reese Curry and Kyndal Bycroft drove in runs to close the gap in the second and third innings, respectively.
But Emporia tacked on three runs in the bottom of the fourth to lead, 6-2.
Clift started in the circle and served up six runs in five innings. Kinsey Schinstock tossed the final inning and allowed two runs on two hits while walking two.
The Mustangs were led at the plate by Curry and Bycroft’s one RBI apiece while Aysha Houk collected two hits. Harper Desmarteau and Houk scored Iola’s runs.
Emporia was led at the plate by Aliva Anno’s two RBIs while Kaylee Reimer and Yzabel Ultreras each knocked home one run. Addison Kirmer and Reimer each had two hits. Reimer also scored three times.
Game two
The Mustangs plated one run in the top of the first inning, two in the third and three in the sixth, more than enough for Clift, who went the distance, striking out seven.
Houk scored three times and Clift once. Clift and Houk each led at the plate with three hits apiece.
Curry and Houk each drove home two runs for Iola. Jadyn Kaufman added an RBI.
Iola will compete at regionals against Atchison/Maur Hill Academy at Ottawa High School on Tuesday.
