Alliance, OH -- The West Branch Lady Warriors pulled out a hard-fought 9–7 win over the Marlington on Wednesday, surviving a late-game surge to secure the victory.

The game started off strong for West Branch, with Addi Craven driving in two runs in the first inning on a clutch single. Marlington answered back in the third with a solo shot to right by C. Miller, and then took the lead in the fourth when M. Bailey launched a two-run homer to center, putting the Dukes up 3–2.

However, the momentum shifted in the top of the fifth, when the Lady Warriors erupted for seven runs on six hits, turning the game around in a huge way. Mati Hawk delivered the key hit of the inning, a two-RBI single that helped put West Branch ahead 9–3.

Although Marlington made things interesting late, chipping away with a single and a pair of doubles to close the gap, West Branch held strong to seal the win.

Klary McKay earned the win in the circle, going six innings while striking out 12 and allowing seven runs (six earned) on 10 hits. Ellie Tucker came in to lock it down and pick up the save. On the other side, J. Doringo took the loss for Marlington.

The Lady Warriors racked up 10 hits in the game, with McKay, Craven, and Carly Loper all collecting two apiece. Hawk, McKay, and Craven each drove in two runs, and Craven also swiped two bags as part of West Branch's four total stolen bases.

The Dukes matched West Branch with 10 hits of their own. Miller had a perfect day at the plate, going 3-for-3, while Bailey and F. Savage each drove in two runs. Miller and Savage also contributed on the base paths, helping Marlington tally six steals on the day.

What's Next: Varsity softball will be back in action tomorrow at Alliance, with the game set to begin at 5 PM.