Defending Division 2 state runner-up Vicksburg swept a pair of non-conference softball games from host Niles at Notre Dame Tuesday.

The Bulldogs routed the Vikings 17-0 in the five-inning opening game, but had to hang on for dear life in the nightcap, winning 5-3.

“What an experience for our girls to be able to play at Notre Dame field,” said Niles coach Rick McKeel. “We weren’t happy with our results, although we competed much better in game two and had a chance to win. Our focus now is on districts and getting our team ready for that.”

In the opener, Niles was held two hits by Avery Slanick and Rylie Richter.

Addison Davies and Aynslee Myer both singled for the Vikings.

Brooke Timm started for Niles, but gave way to Kelsey Barkman after two innings. Barkman, who allowed seven runs on five hits, suffered the loss.

In the second game, Niles gave up a pair of runs in the sixth inning to snap the 3-3 deadlock.

The Vikings finished the game with six hits, including a 2-for-2 performance by Samantha Woolverton, who also drove in a run.

Rachel Moore and Timm both doubled for Niles, which will host the Division 2 district tournament at Vella Park Saturday.

The Vikings will face Dowagiac in the opening game at 10 a.m.

Edwardsburg and Paw Paw will square off in the second game at approximately noon with the championship game scheduled for 2 p.m.

 

VICKSBURG 17-5, NILES 0-3

At Notre Dame

First game

Vicksburg      542 06 – 17 15 1

Niles               000 00 – 0 2 2

Avery Slanick (W), Rylie Ritchter (5); Brooke Timm (L), Kelsey Barkman (3).

2B: Slanick (V), Sadie Martin (V).

3B: Shaidan Knapp (V).

 

Second game

Vicksburg      110 102 0 – 5 10 1

Niles               000 300 0 – 3 6 2

Rylie Richter (W), Kail Yant (4); Brooke Timm (L).

2B: Rachel Moore (N), Timm (N).

Varsity records: Niles 14-21.