Central Springs, Clarksville Lose Second-Round Girls State Softball Tournament Games

North Iowa softball teams both lost their semi-final games at the state tournament Wednesday night in Fort Dodge.

Central Springs was edged in their Class 2A matchup against Van Meter, 10-9. The Panthers made a fierce rally late in the game, but their six-run sixth inning was not enough to overcome a 10-3 deficit going into the frame. Aurora Stapleton had four RBIs for Central Springs, now 26-6 on the season.

The Panthers drop to the consolation bracket and will play for third place against Interstate 35 at 3:30 pm Friday afternoon.

Clarksville also fell by one run Wednesday, with the Indians losing to North Linn 2-1 in their Class 1A semifinal. Clarksville managed just three hits, with Mollie Bloker driving in their lone run. Pitcher Cailyn Hardy allowed just four hits in the loss, just the second of the season for the Indians, now 29-2.

Clarksville will play for third place in Class 1A against Wayne at 6 pm Friday evening.