Kirkwood Sweeps Ellsworth in Wednesday Doubleheader
Cedar Rapids, IA — The Kirkwood Eagles softball team flexed their strength in a home doubleheader against Ellsworth Community College, taking both games with authority. The Eagles opened the afternoon with a 9-1 win in Game 1 and followed up with a high-scoring 14-7 victory in Game 2 to complete the sweep.
Game 1: Paulsen Nearly Perfect, Johnson Powers Offense
In the opener, Kirkwood's pitching and patience at the plate overwhelmed Ellsworth. Sophomore ace Peyton Paulsendelivered a dominant five-inning outing, tossing a no-hitter while striking out two and walking just one. The lone Ellsworth run came unearned, as Kirkwood's defense held firm behind her.
Offensively, the Eagles put up seven hits and drew six walks, exploding for six runs in the fifth to end the game early via the run rule. Kiya Johnson starred at the plate with a home run and four RBIs, while Peyton Johnson added two RBIs of her own. Reese Stockman and Jessa DeMoss also contributed with run-scoring plays, and Shannon Finn set the table from the leadoff spot, scoring twice.
Game 2: Bats Stay Hot in Slugfest Victory
Kirkwood picked up right where they left off in Game 2, jumping to a 6-0 lead through two innings. Though Ellsworth answered with a six-run third to temporarily tie things up, the Eagles responded immediately and never looked back, finishing with 14 runs on 12 hits.
Kiya Johnson capped off her monster day by going 3-for-4 with five RBIs, including a double. Peyton Johnsonhomered and doubled, adding two RBIs, while Savannah Caves launched a two-run homer of her own. The offensive depth was on full display as Theobald, Ross, and Thurm also drove in runs.
Pitching duties were split, with Carley Cavanagh earning the win after tossing four solid innings of relief. She allowed three hits and no earned runs while striking out four. Natalie Vitek and Jessa DeMoss also pitched in, combining for three additional scoreless innings.
Up next for Kirkwood is another doubleheader at home against Iowa Lakes on Saturday beginning at 1PM.
