CLARION — Cameron County put up a valiant effort against the No. 2 seed, but saw its playoff run cut short.

Junior ace Kait Constantino, who’s been a force all season, was just that on Tuesday, allowing only three hits while racking up 16 strikeouts and no walks to key Clarion to a 5-0 quarterfinal round victory in the District 9 Class A playoffs.

Ava Kiser had a hit and two RBIs while Jordan Best doubled, Brenna Campbell tripled and each scored a run for the Bobcats. After surrendering a four-run second inning, Cameron County played Clarion to just a 1-0 game the rest of the way.

“(Constantino’s) a great pitcher,” CC coach Jocelyn Wensel said. “When we could get on base, their catcher did a great job of keeping everything in front, so we didn’t have many opportunities to steal.    

“We were able to hold them, but we had a couple of overthrows and passed balls that allowed them to score a couple extra runs. Their pitcher was really bringing the heat today, and we just couldn’t get around that.”

Haley Rees, Alyvia McKimm and Ashlea Burgett all singled for the seventh-seeded Red Raiders (10-9). Laila Smith had another strong outing in the circle, allowing five runs (4 earned) on five hits with five strikeouts and three walks.

“My girls fought hard,” Wensel added. “They did their best, and I’m proud of my 10 seniors.”