Demon softball splits in FM

FORT MADISON — The Fort Madison softball team did enough to spoil Washington’s undefeated Southeast Conference season on Monday night, but not quite enough to leave the Demons winless in a league doubleheader.

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Washington suffered its first SEC defeat at the hands of the hosting Bloodhounds, falling 9-6.

The Demons looked strong in Game 1, getting out to their usual fast start by scoring three runs in the top of the first inning. The game would turn rough on defense, however, as Fort Madison strung together three runs in the first, two in the second and three in the third to take an 8-3 lead.

Washington trailed 9-3 heading into the final two frames. The Demons did put up some more runs, scoring one in the sixth and two in the seventh, but that’s all Washington would get.

The Demons were led offensively by Ella Greiner, who finished the game 3-for-4 with three RBIs. Natalie Hartman was 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI, and both Leighton Salazar and Colbie Greiner collected two hits. Salazar and Halle Cuddeback each had one double.

Colbie Greiner and Bella Salazar split time in the circle in Game 1. Greiner was tagged with the loss.

The Bloodhounds kept fighting in Game 2, but Washington’s offense did enough to keep them at bay.

Cuddeback pitched a complete game in Game 2, giving up five runs (four earned) while striking out five Bloodhounds in the win.

Colbie Greiner had the big hit in Game 2, finishing 2-for-5 with four RBIs. Bella Salazar was 2-for-4 with an RBI. Kaleah Gerdes had a double and an RBI, and both Natalie Hartman and Leighton Salazar knocked a run in.

Washington is now 13-1 in the conference, already having locked up the SEC crown last week. The Demons are 23-8 overall. Fort Madison is 9-12 overall and 6-8 in conference play.