#12 Kirkwood Drops Pair to #7 DMACC
Cedar Rapids, IA – The Kirkwood Community College softball team came up just short in both games of Thursday's home doubleheader against a tough Des Moines Area Community College squad, falling 5-2 in the opener and 8-4 in game two.
Game 1: DMACC 5, Kirkwood 2
Despite a strong showing at the plate and a complete-game effort from Peyton Paulsen, the Eagles were unable to capitalize on key scoring chances, ultimately dropping the first game 5-2.
Kirkwood outhit the Bears 8-7, with Mischa Reiners, Kiya Johnson, and Shannon Finn each collecting hits and contributing on the basepaths. Johnson recorded the team's only RBI, and Reiners, Johnson, and Kinsley Theobald all stole bases to pressure the DMACC defense.
Paulsen pitched all seven innings for the Eagles, allowing just two earned runs and striking out four. Defensive miscues proved costly, as three Kirkwood errors allowed extra opportunities for the Bears.
DMACC's Erin Ades powered the visiting team with a 3-for-4 day, including a home run.
Game 2: DMACC 8, Kirkwood 4
The second game proved more explosive for both offenses, but once again, Des Moines Area came out on top, using a three-run fifth inning to pull away from the Eagles.
Kirkwood's bats showed more life, pounding out 10 hits, including home runs from Peyton Johnson, Sophia Kreutner, and Kiya Johnson. Rachael Schlotter went 2-for-4 with a double, and Reese Stockman added an RBI and a double of her own. The offensive output was encouraging, but it wasn't quite enough to match the Bears.
Pitching was by committee for Kirkwood in the second game. Starter Kiya Johnson took the loss (1-2), allowing three runs in 2.2 innings. Relievers Natalie Vitek and Jessa DeMoss combined for 4.1 innings of work, but Des Moines managed to plate eight total runs on 10 hits, including homers by Reiling and Josie McCuddin.
Next up for Kirkwood is a double-header in Estherville against Iowa Lakes on Saturday and then they return home to play #15 NIACC here in Cedar Rapids starting at 2 PM.
