Struggles continue for Clear Lake softball team

The Clear Lake girls softball team slid to 0-18 with five losses last week.  The Lions fell to GHV (see separate article below) and Forest City in non-conference action.  They were topped by Clarion-Goldfield-Dows and Webster City in North Central Conference action.

Clarion-Goldfield 13, CL 2

Ten errors doomed the Lions in a game with Clarion-Goldfield-Dows Wednesday, June 24.

“This was a learning experience for our girls.  If we continue to allow teams to capitalize on our errors, it becomes a struggle to win,” said Coach Young.

The Lions also struggled on offense, collecting just two hits.  Lexi Jones had a hit and RBI, and Carney Frahm connected for a double and scored a run.

Baalson took the loss on the mound.  She gave up seven hits, walked two and struck out one.

Forest City 4, CL 2

The Lions played a much better game against Forest City on Thursday.

“We were able to take a quick lead and started the game impeccably,” said Coach Young.  “There seems to be a ‘one inning upset’ that takes over.  This happened on a few errors and allowed Forest City to gain the lead, but not until the seventh inning.”

The Lions held a 2-1 lead through five innings, but the Indians evened the score in the sixth and scored two runs in the seventh for the 4-2 win.

The Lions had four hits in the game provided by Jones, Niles, Tori Fyfe and Sara Buehler.  Jones and Niles got the RBIs.

Baalson was the losing pitcher.  She went the distance, allowing eight hits, striking out one  and walking three.

Webster City 5, CL 1

Webster City 15, CL 3

The Lions played a pair of games with Webster City Friday, June 26.

The first was a makeup from a June 11 game.  Again the Lions played a close contest, but errors were costly.

“This game was a tough one for us coaches to watch.  We had a lot of unnecessary errors, but we continue to play and learn from them,” said Young.

Baalson pitched well in a losing effort.

In the second game Brackey showed great command in the circle, but didn’t get the calls, according to her coach.

“The girls showed great reverence by coming back and fighting the second game.  The girls really showed what they are capable of during this game.  We are excited to go into next week and tournament play.”

Individual statistics were not available for the WC games.