Waynesville jumped on top then scratched out a single run in the ninth inning to beat Republic on Tuesday, 7-6.
The Lady Tigers fell behind early as Waynesville exploded for five runs in the first inning. Riley Grosvenor’s double drove in the first run, and Alaina Gordan’s single extended the lead to 3-0. Akalyah Calhoun singled to score another run, with an error allowing an additional runner to cross the plate. Kailynn Bryan’s ground out capped the big inning.
Republic answered in the second inning with two runs. Maddie Taylor was hit by a pitch and Kara Goeke walked. After Maddie Carter advanced the runners with a ground out, Emma Ellison was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Emma Hoodenpyle walked to force in a run, and Paige Elsenraat’s fielder’s choice brought home another.
Republic tied the game with four runs in the third inning. Goeke tripled to drive in two runs after Piper Dishman singled and Taylor was hit by a pitch. Emma Ellison doubled to score a run, and Hoodenpyle followed with another RBI double to knot the score at 6-6.
Both teams went scoreless until Waynesville manufactured the game-winner in the ninth with the help of a sacrifice and a Republic error.
Goeke finished 2-for-3 with two RBIs for Republic. Hoodenpyle doubled and Elsenraat and Dishman each added singles. Ellison drove in a run and scored once.
Dishman pitched 7 1/3 innings in relief, allowing three hits and one unearned run while striking out five. Goeke started and lasted one inning, giving up five hits and six runs (three earned).
The loss drops Republic to 5-3 on the season. The Lady Tigers host Lebanon on Thursday.
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