The battle for a play-off berth in District 19-5A softball was put to rest tonight as Spring Woods took the win in overtime against Stratford.3-2. “Redemption,” stated head coach Allison Lozano referring to other hard-fought games against Stratford and the opportunity to now move on to the play-offs.

This game was action packed from the first inning as Spring Woods put up the first run with help from Rachel Heidemann, into overtime as the seventh closed out with a tied ball game.1-1.

Both pitchers battled on the mound and depended heavily on their comrades for the defense needed.

Spartan Lauren Brady, just coming off a very close loss to Memorial Friday night (2-1), controlled the mound and battled for this final district win. With support from all sides, the Spartans fell just short, ending the season with  8-6-0 District and 11-16-0 overall records.

Winning pitcher Heidemann in tandem with catcher Katelyn Bogrand played tough and provided the winning combination for this critical game. With the Tigers stepping up in the outfield, on the bases, and at bat, this “young team” secured the opportunity to move into bi-district play.

Coach Lozano explained how exciting this was for her team who had matured and improved all year. Although there are five seniors on the team only two have played before this season.

Spring Woods third baseman Katie Fields started the action for the Tigers by bunting a single in the top of the eight inning. Bogrand’s fly to mid-centerfield allowed a single and a waltz to second advancing Fields to third. With a hard hit from Heidemann for a double, Fields came in to put up another run. Bogrand would come in for the final run of the inning.3-1.

Stratford battled back but was stopped by outstanding fielding on the part of Dorya Rincon in right field and second baseman Sarah Smith. The Spartans put up one run in the eight but fell short by one.

Final score 3-2.

Both teams finished the season wih identical district records, strong team chemistry, and catchers who rank in the top five players in the city with batting averages of .500 or better.

Congratulations to Spring Wood's Bogrand and Stratford's Lindsey Gordon for their hot bats.

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