Columbus East High School

The Columbus East softball team made the short trip across town Monday evening but came up short in a tightly contested matchup, falling to rival Columbus North 2-0. In a game where runs were at a premium, the Olympians matched the Bulldogs with five hits, but couldn’t find the timely breakthrough at the plate. Columbus East was limited to five singles on the night and struck out eight times. Thaise Jessup and Taylor Wessel led the way offensively with two hits apiece. Jessup recorded a pair of singles, while Wessel also added two singles. Baleigh Fish accounted for the fifth hit with a single of her own. Fish was strong in the circle despite the loss, turning in a complete game effort. The junior allowed just five hits and two runs—only one earned—while striking out two and working through several key moments to keep the Olympians within striking distance. Columbus North broke through early, plating a run in the first inning and adding what proved to be the decisive run in the third. East’s defense responded with several clean innings late, including a double play in the sixth to halt a potential rally. The Olympians had opportunities but were unable to capitalize, leaving runners on base and being held scoreless through seven innings. Columbus East returns to action on Wednesday, April 22nd when they welcome the Lawrence Central Bears at Olympian Field. First pitch: 6 p.m.