Newton softball ends season after loss to No. 13 B-F

BONDURANT — Two of the first three batters in the game singled for Newton’s softball team, but the Cardinals couldn’t maintain momentum throughout the contest on Saturday.

Newton was retired in order in five of the seven frames and Class 4A No. 13 Bondurant-Farrar shut out the Cardinals, 4-0, during a 4A Region 3 semifinal contest.

“It was a hard fought game,” Newton softball coach Kory Leiker said. “We came up a little bit short, but I’m proud of all the work these girls have put in. They are winners in all aspects this season.”

Newton was limited to two hits and one walk in the game. The Lady Jays scored twice in the second and twice in the fifth.

Katelyn Lambert led off the game with a single but was erased on the bases because of a double play. Kya Butler then singled with two outs but was left stranded.

The Cardinals didn’t have another base runner until the fifth when Kadance Ahn drew a one-out walk and Madison Henwood reached on a two-out error. But both runners were stranded after a fly out to right field.

Kallie VanKley (7-11) pitched all six innings for Newton, allowing four earned runs on six hits with four strikeouts and seven walks.

Bondurant-Farrar (23-14) also was aided by two Newton errors.

“These girls have given their all every game,” Leiker said. “They fought, cheered, laughed and cried together. They became a family and I’m proud they allowed me to be their coach. I love this game and I love this team.”

B-F’s Katelyn Lappe came into the game with a state-best 21 home runs but was walked three times. Her fourth at-bat ended in a fielder’s choice ground out.

One season after not winning a single game, the Cardinals finished 16-19. Most of the team is back next season, too.

“They learned how to win,” Leiker said. “They not only caught the attention of the conference, they also put them on notice that Newton Cardinal softball is coming back stronger next season.”