Soza homers as Colton advances to crossover

COLTON - After being shut-out 11-0 by DeSales in the district semifinal game, the Colton Wildcats responded.

Colton would defeat the Dayton Bulldogs 8-2 in a loser-out match on Monday, May 13, in Spokane, advancing them to their next match, and automatically qualifying the team for district crossover matches.

Colton scored seven runs in the bottom of the fifth inning to propel them to victory over the Bulldogs.

Kiya Soza pitched all seven innings for the Wildcats in the game against Dayton. She allowed two earned runs on five hits with seven strikeouts.

Offensively, Colton had nine hits in the game, led by two each from Kaydee Heitstuman, Soza and Mere Bell. Soza had two RBIs, including a home run in the game.

Rori Weber would also pick up two RBIs on the day.

After the game against the Bulldogs, Colton had a match-up with Sunnyisde Christian.

Both teams qualified for the crossover games, regardless of who came way with the win.

Sunnyside Christian would jump on Colton early, scoring in five-of-seven innings, including a four-run fourth inning to take the 12-5 victory over Colton.

Clare Moehrle would pitch all seven innings for Colton. She allowed 12 runs, seven earned, on nine hits with seven walks. She also would strikeout a game-high 10 batters.

On the offensive side, both Colton and Sunnyside Christian had nine hits. The difference in the game was caused by the eight defensive errors for Colton, compared to two from Sunnyside Christian.

Heitstuman and Kate Schultheis each had two hits to lead Colton. Moehrle, Schultheis and Leah Musson picked up an RBI in the game.

Colton now move on to the district 6/7/9 crossover matches. The double-elimination tournament starts Friday, May 17, concluding Saturday, May 18. All games will be played at Franklin Park fields in Spokane.

Colton enter the tournament against Almira-Coulee-Hartline. The game will be played on Friday, May 17, at 4 pm. Almiar-Coulee-Hartline are currently ranked number two based off RPI standings provided by the WIAA. They hold a record of 15-3, trailing only Inchelium, who are 20-1. Inchelium are also in the bracket with Colton.

If Colton win, they will play Saturday, May 18, in the semifinal game, where another win secures their place in state. A loss against Almira-Coulee-Hartline forces the Wildcats into a loser-out match on Saturday, May 18, at 11 a.m.

Colton still have a chance to qualify for state with a loss at any point. To qualify, teams have to win two games, however, the path to state is much easier if teams win their opening round match-up.