The Algona softball team is on to the regional semifinal after defeating Clear Lake 3-2 in the class 3A – region 5 quarterfinal round. Algona scored 3 runs in the 2nd inning, as that would be all the offense needed. With a scoreless game and the bases loaded with one out, Lainey Venteicher hit a groundball back to pitcher Jezzie Thompson, as the Lion pitcher threw home to get the first out, but the throw to first base attempting to turn a double play went down the right field line, allowing a run to score. Kayla Busher, batted next with the Bulldogs leading 1-0, and blasted a two-run double to the left centerfield gap, giving Algona a 3-0 lead.
Clear Lake scored 2 in the bottom of the third inning, as a pair of run-scoring groundballs on the infield made the score 3-2. The Bulldogs threw out the game tying run at home plate to end the inning, keeping the score 3-2. Another key moment came in the 5th, as Clear Lake loaded the bases with one out, but did not score, as the runner at 3rd base failed to tag up on a flyout to center field, and a groundout to second base after that ended the threat. After Algona failed to add any insurance runs, leaving the bases loaded in the top of the 7th, the Lions left the game tying run at second base in the bottom of the 7th, as a groundout to shortstop ended the game. Ryan Haynes pitched the first 3 innings, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits and 1 walk with 1 strikeout. Allison Trunkhill pitched the final 4, not walking any batters, while allowing 4 hits and striking out 4. Jezzie Thompson took the loss, allowing 4 hits in 7 innings pitched, walking 5 and striking out 4. All 3 Clear Lake runs allowed were unearned. Algona plays on Saturday night at Sumner-Fredericksburg, who defeated Garner Hayfield Ventura 12-0 last night.
