In a doubleheader showdown at the Bill Givens Memorial Little League Field, the Houghton Gremlins and Hancock Bulldogs split victories, showcasing contrasting styles in softball prowess.
Houghton Gremlins Dominate Hancock Bulldogs in Softball Showdown
In the first game, the Houghton Gremlins dominated with an 8-1 victory. Clea Ollenketo kicked off the scoring with a solo home run, setting the tone early. Stellar pitching from starter Stella Soumis sealed the win, allowing only four hits and one run while striking out four. Mel Baker, Gremlins coach, praised the team’s batting and baserunning, awarding game balls to Ollenketo and Soumis for their standout performances.
The Bulldogs bounced back in the second game, securing a narrow 2-1 win in a pitching duel. They took an early lead in the first inning and added another run in the fourth, relying on solid pitching from Sadie Biekkola. Despite a late rally from the Gremlins in the sixth inning, the Bulldogs’ defense held strong to secure the victory.
Playoff Aspirations: Houghton Gremlins and Hancock Bulldogs Prepare for Postseason Challenges
Both teams now look ahead to the playoffs with cautious optimism. Baker noted that the Gremlins are refining their game, while Bulldogs coach Craig Biekkola emphasized the need for a complete performance across pitching, defense, and hitting.
With the regular season winding down, both teams are gearing up for postseason play, aiming to iron out their strategies and improve their overall gameplay.
