Geraldton Softball League round wrap: Batavia Blaze triumph in first win of the season

It was an action-packed weekend of softball with Batavia Blaze claiming their first win of the men’s division one season, defeating Rams 4-3 in a thrilling encounter.

The game was tied at 3-all heading into the final inning, where Joshua Thompson delivered a clutch hit to bring in the winning run.

Blaze pitcher Jack Etherton was exceptional, striking out most of the Rams lineup, while Paul Valenti and Dean Pascoe worked tirelessly for Rams on the pitchers mound.

In another men’s division one clash, Suiside returned to form with a 7-4 win over Martians. After trailing early, Suiside took control in the sixth inning when Joseph Mazza smashed a three-run homer.

Liam Meharry struck out 12 batters and added a two-run homer to secure the win. Martians, featuring promising juniors like Zade Colley, showed grit but were outclassed by Suiside’s powerful batting.

Next round, Blaze will aim for two wins in a row against Suiside, while Rams will look to bounce back against Martians.

In women’s division 1, Martians and Rams fought to a dramatic 10-all draw. Martians led 10-6 after five innings, but Rams rallied with four runs in the final two innings to tie the game.

Key performers for Rams were Kristi March and Alana McCartney, while Hayley Coker and Tamara Kuipers impressed for Martians.

Marlins also returned to winning ways with an 8-2 victory over Suiside, led by Taryn Purcell’s outstanding pitching and team-wide batting dominance. Next, Rams will meet Suiside, and Panthers take on Martians in what promises to be a tight contest.

Martians secured a hard-fought 19-15 win over Batavia Blaze in women’s division two. Despite being out-hit 18-7, Martians capitalised on Blaze’s pitching struggles.

Suzette Alden recorded five strikeouts, while Rebecca Armstrong’s steady performance sealed the victory. Summer Palmer and Alyssa Piper stood out for Blaze despite the loss.

Marlins extended their streak, defeating Rams White 22-10, while Suiside bounced back to beat Panthers 20-11. Gunduwa continued their strong form with a 19-8 win over Rams Blue.

Upcoming games feature Suiside versus Rams Blue, Pi’s against Blaze, and Marlins against Martians.

In men’s division two, Suiside crushed Martians Red 16-0, with Kane Jefferies striking out 12 batters and contributing two hits. Rams Blue overpowered Martians Black 20-6, while Gunduwa earned a thrilling 15-13 victory over Rams White.

Blaze dominated Pi’s Panthers 33-0, with Eli Etherton’s superb pitching shutting down the newcomers. Next weekend, Pi’s will hope to turn things around against Suiside, Marlins face Martians Black, and Rams Blue take on Gunduwa.