The Bandits entered tonight's regular season finale looking to even up the series against the Diamonds, as they prepare to face off against each other next week during the first round of the Championship Series.
Nikki Nemitz (7-7) started in the circle for the Bandits, looking to end the season on a high note in front of a sell-out crowd. Going up against Nemitz was the Diamonds Danielle Spaulding (0-5).
The Bandits opened the scoring in the bottom of the third inning as Alisa Goler hit a two-run home run. Amanda Williams increased the lead to 3-0 later in the inning with an RBI single that scored Kristen Butler. Shannon Doepking's sacrifice bunt gave the Bandits a 4-0 lead as Tammy Williams crossed the plate.
GiOnna DiSalvatore cut the lead to 4-1 with a solo home run in the top of the fourth. The Diamonds threatened later in the inning after loading the bases, but the Bandits recovered to get out of the inning and maintain their three run lead.
"The defense made some great plays," said Nemitz. "They were able help get me out of some jams."
Morgan Melloh replaced Spaulding in the circle to start the fourth inning for the Diamonds, and later gave up a solo home run to Megan Wiggins in the sixth inning, which extended the Bandits lead 5-1.
With Wiggins' insurance run, the Bandits cruised to a 5-1 lead to split the final series of the season with the Diamonds.
The Bandits start their defense of the Cowles Cup on Thursday at 6:00 p.m. CDT in a game one of their series against the Diamonds. For Championship Series tickets, visit championship.profastpitch.com [2] or contact the Bandits box office at 877-722-6348.
