In a low-scoring pitchers’ duel, the Exira-EHK-Audubon Softball team edged out the AHSTW Lady Vikes 3-0 on Thursday night. Both pitchers excelled in different fashions, but it was Exira-EHK-Audubon that got the big hits at the right times to pick up their second win of the season.

Exira-EHK-Audubon got on the board early. Riley Miller brought home Anna Larsen with an RBI double to give them the early lead. Despite the good start, runs would be hard to come by. Lady Vikes pitcher Sienna Christian came through in pressure packed scenarios. Although she struggled with control at times, she battled back numerous times striking out 11 and stranding 8 Exira-EHK-Audubon baserunners. Six were stranded in scoring position.

Despite Christian’s work, Exira-EHK-Audubon broke through again in the third. Alissa Testroet blooped one into shallow right for her first of two hits, driving in Miller. Exira-EHK-Audubon picked up their final run in the sixth as Jordan Muford drove in the game’s final run.

On the other side of the duel, Riley Miller was near impeccable. She retired the side in order 4 times and, after giving up a pair of walks in the third, completely shut the door. She retired 14 of the last 15 batters and ended the game with 12 strikeouts while allowing just 2 hits. She was extremely efficient throughout the course of the ballgame. Miller rarely got behind in the count and limited the number of Lady Vike baserunners. In a low-scoring game, Miller was a big reason why the team is now 3-0. Head Coach Tom Petersen applauded her performance.

Despite coming out on top, he says there are still some things to work on at the plate.

Moving forward in the young season with a young team, Petersen believes their ability to communicate will be key.

Up next for Exira-EHK-Audubon will head home to take on Tri-Center, while AHSTW will remain at home to battle with Underwood.