Newton softball team wins three, now 3-2

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Behind solid pitching from Val Humke and stellar gloves on defense, the Newton softball team picked up its first three wins of the season Friday and Saturday. The Cardinals defeated Pella Christian, 1-0, Friday and then traveled to the Southeast Warren Tournament on Saturday, where they took down Woobury Central and Morman Trail.

Newton 1, Pella Christian 0 PELLA — Humke allowed no runs on just three hits and walked two while earning the complete-game victory. The Cardinals’ lone run of the game came in the fourth inning as Caitlyn Meyer knocked in Humke. Meyer went 2-for-3 on the day with a double and an RBI. Kati Herr had Newton’s only other hit and also stole two bases. “It was a very well played game for both teams,” Newton coach Gary Grimes said. “The defense played its best game of the season and Val is starting to come into her own on the mound.” The Eagles are ranked No. 15 in Class 2A.

Southeast Warren Tournament LIBERTY CENTER — Newton continued to do just enough against Class 1A No. 4 Woodbury Central on Saturday. The Cardinals managed just three hits, but those hits were enough to claim a 3-1 victory. Newton scored all three of its run in the third inning as RBI hits were recorded by Humke and junior Mallory Sturtz. Senior Julie Beukema, sophomore Amanda Jones and Humke each scored one run. Beukema had the team’s other hit and stole a base. Humke allowed one run on four hits in claiming the win. “Val pitched another strong game,” Grimes said. “She stayed ahead of hitters all game. The defense made several great defensive plays in the field.” The Newton bats woke up in the second game Saturday as the Cardinals crushed Morman Trail, 12-0, in four innings. Newton scored two runs in the first, three in the second and then ended the game by plating six in the fourth. That was plenty of run support as Humke tossed a no-hitter on the mound. Freshman Courtney Meyer and Herr each had three hits to lead Newton, which totalled 15 hits in the game. Courtney Meyer singled, doubled and tripled, scored two runs and had two RBIs. Herr had three singles, two runs and an RBI. Humke and Caitlyn Meyer each had two hits at the plate. Sturtz had one hit but knocked in three runs with that single and a sacrifice fly. Nicole George had two RBIs, as well.