Independence edges Marion in a 4A regional-quarterfinal thriller, 2-1

MARION — In one elated breath, Independence softball coach Alex Farmer said his “chest hurt.”

In the next:

“This is the reason you get into coaching, for moments like this.”

Independence struck for two runs in the top of the sixth inning and edged Marion, 2-1, in a Class 4A regional quarterfinal Thursday night at the Les Hipple Athletic Complex.

“I’m happy I get to stay a Mustang for another two days, at least,” senior Emily Erdelt said after igniting the decisive rally. “I’ve enjoyed playing with these girls, and I’m glad I get at least one more game with them.”

Indee (19-22) will face No. 13 Maquoketa (25-9) in a regional semifinal Saturday at Maquoketa.

The Mustangs prevailed despite leaving eight runners on base and hitting into two double plays. They did it by cashing in on Marion’s fourth error, when they couldn’t capitalize on the first three.

With Indee down 1-0 in the sixth, Erdelt got it started with a single. After a strikeout and an error put runners at the corners with one out, Jordin Derr delivered a run-scoring groundout to tie it, then Leah House laced a single to put the Mustangs in front.

“It’s really important to stay focused in the batter’s box,” Erdelt said. “And we like to talk to each other after we’ve been up to bat. If somebody tells you to move up in the box, you listen.”

Marion (15-21) had one more scoring opportunity, in the bottom of the seventh. Eighth-grade pinch-hitter Lucy Turner led off with a single, then moved to second on Brooklyn Walter’s sacrifice bunt.

Derr, the Mustangs’ third baseman, gloved Peyton Johnson’s pop foul up against the fence for the second out. Farmer wisely elected to intentionally pass Michaela Goad, putting the winning run on base, but Indee pitcher Allison Kleve ended it with a strikeout.

Marion tallied its run in the first inning. Goad walked with two outs, moved to second on a wild pitch and scored on Harlow Griffin’s single.

Independence collected six hits, compared to three for Marion. The Mustangs played error-free defense.

As the Mustangs prepared the bus for a joyful ride back to Buchanan County, they turned and returned to the field and applauded along with the Marion parents and fans as the Wolves’ seniors were saluted for the final time.

Neat moment. Quality game.

Independence 2, Marion 1

Class 4A Regional Quarterfinal, at Marion

Independence 000 002 0 — 2 6 0

Marion 100 000 0 — 1 3 4

Allison Kleve and Dakota Whitman. Mya Chamberlin and Peyton Johnson. W — Kleve (11-11). L — Chamberlin (9-12).

Comments: jeff.linder@thegazette.com