By Bill Rudickbrudick55@gmail.com
BERWYN>>As the softball season moves into crunch time, Conestoga is firing on all cylinders. Against visiting Garnet Valley Wednesday afternoon at D’Ambrosia Park, the Pioneers (14-2 overall, 13-1 Central League) pushed across seven runs in the first two innings, then cruised to an 11-1 victory in five innings.
“Lead-off through nine, we were hitting line drives and putting the ball in play,” said Conestoga coach Charlotte Bosco. “This is the tightest team we’ve had at Conestoga in a long time. We all get along great, and have great chemistry. We’re looking forward to seeing what we can do in the post season.”
After starting pitcher Mary Crowley retired the Jaguars in order in the top of the first, the Pioneers wasted no time in getting going in the bottom half. Jamie Lofland (1-for-2, two stolen bases,two runs scored, RBI) stroked a lead-off single to left and Marisa Francione walked, Brennan Corr (3-for-3, three runs scored) picked up the first of her three RBI on the day with a single, moving up to second on an unsuccessful throw home.
Char Friel was up next, bringing Corr home with a single of her own, and came around to score when Ruija Yang reached on a fielder’s choice. 
Lofland’s base hit was the 99th of her career, making her a virtual lock to reach the century mark this season, her junior year.
“Still being my junior year, it’s going to be a pretty big accomplishment,” said Lofland. “I’m excited to get there, and excited to see what this team can do in districts.”
Conestoga struck again in the second, plating four runs, highlighted by RBI singles from Corr and Bella Giuliani, then put the game away with a four run fourth, with RBI from pinch-hitter Mollie Saylor, catcher Drew McKenzie, and a sacrifice fly from Lofland.
Mary Crowley picked up the win in the circle for the Pioneers, with four strong innings of work. Crowley allowed one run on two hits, striking out two while walking none. Kiera Norton threw one inning of relief, allowing just one base hit.
Garnet’s lone run came in the fourth. Alaina Sareyka led off with a single, swiped second, moved up to third when Anna Sareyka singled up the middle, then came in to score on a sacrifice fly from Jenna Fulmer.
Despite the loss, the Jags (11-7, 9-6 Central) are still very much in the hunt for a slot in the District 1, Class 6A tournament.
“Conestoga is a good, fundamentally solid team, and they just hit the ball well today,” said Garnet coach Alie Alkins. “But we’re still in the hunt, and ready to make a playoff push. We have to start closing the gaps and find consistency. We have a huge game coming up Monday against Ridley, so we’re going to get focused on that.”
Conestoga 11 Garnet Valley 1, 5 inningsGarnet Valley 0 0 0 1 0—1Conestoga 3 4 0 4 X—11WP—Crowley LP—Thompson
