Girard, OH -- The West Branch Lady Warriors held on to beat the Girard Varsity Indians 5-3 on Saturday, despite seeing their 5-run lead shrink in the later innings. Girard made a push, scoring on a solo home run and a single, but West Branch managed to hold them off.

The bottom of the lineup came up big for West Branch, with Zoe Metzgar, Libbie Davis, and Carly Loper combining for four of the team's eight hits. The trio contributed two runs and drove in two as well.

West Branch took control in the top of the fifth inning. Davis singled to bring in two runs, followed by a double from Ellie Tucker that scored one run. An error added another run, and Klary McKay singled to drive in one more, giving West Branch a solid 5-0 lead.

Tucker earned the win for West Branch, pitching four innings. She gave up three hits and three runs while striking out four and walking two. Chloe Plant took the loss for Girard, going seven innings and allowing five runs (three earned) on eight hits, with one strikeout and no walks. McKay closed out the game with three scoreless innings of relief, giving up two hits and striking out five.

Davis, the number nine hitter, led West Branch with two RBIs, going 1-for-3 on the day. Metzgar and McKay each had two hits. The Lady Warriors also played strong defense, turning one double play and committing no errors. Tucker led the team with seven chances in the field.

For Girard, Gianna Saxon led the offense with two RBIs, going 1-for-3. Caylee Wilkes, Saxon, Riley Collins, Gabby Doran, and Brooklyn Broll each recorded one hit.

What's Next: Next up for the West Branch Lady Warriors is a home game against Ursuline on Tuesday at 5 PM.