By JO WANKEL

Era Sports Writer

Bradford defeated Port Allegany 12-4 Saturday in perfect softball weather and a return of Saturday morning high school softball to the newly refreshed Dana Field. The Lady Owls played hard for the win providing a fitting followup to a ceremony recognizing this year’s seniors: Mallory Craig, Daisy Greene, Bella Zandy and Alyssa Johnson.

“The senior recognition game is always a mix of emotions. While I feel immense pride and excitement for our seniors, it is also very emotional. (Saturday), we were determined to secure a win for our seniors—and we did just that,” Bradford coach Katie Greene said. “As we approach the final games of the season, I hope they savor each moment, knowing these are their last high school softball innings.”

Greene earned the mound win, striking out 11 and walking four while giving up four hits.

Craig gave the Lady Owls the lead in the bottom of the second inning with a single that scored two runs that would be the first of seven. Zandy doubled, knocking in a run, Mackenzie Taylor singled, scoring two runs and Sarah Cox singled, scoring one run. A final run of the inning was scored on an error.

The Lady Owls went on to score two runs in the fourth and sixth and a single run in the fifth to guarantee the victory.

The Lady Gators put forth strong effort to rally, scoring two runs in the third and a run each in the fourth and fifth, but it wasn’t enough to stem the tide of Bradford runners.

“Each game is a chance to learn and grow. We capitalized on every opportunity, from timely hits to disciplined pitching, and maintained our composure throughout. It was a collective effort that led to a well-earned victory,” Greene stated.

On the mound for Port Allegany was Bria Wilcox, who struck out nine and walked five while giving up nine hits.

Leading Port Allegany at the plate were Sienna Lathrop, who had two hits in four at bats, and Madison Errick and Alyssa Tanner, who each had an RBI.