Cedar Rapids, Iowa – The No. 2 Central Methodist softball team opened Heart Conference Tournament play Thursday against No. 7 Mount Mercy in Cedar Rapids.

The Eagles struck first, jumping out to a 2-0 lead with back-to-back home runs from Kaysie Jolley and Elizabeth Palumbo. Central extended its advantage in the sixth inning, as Madison Roberts doubled and Kinlei Boley followed with an RBI single to push the lead to 4-0.

Mount Mercy rallied in the top of the seventh, scoring five runs to take a late lead. The Eagles answered in dramatic fashion.

After drawing two walks and a double by Joely Crider loaded the bases, Maddie Holly delivered a clutch two-run single, scoring pinch runner Kendall Miller and Brianna Craig to secure Central's first win of the tournament.

Karlie Barnum was strong through six innings, allowing three unearned runs while striking out four. Haley Cotter closed out the game, surrendering two unearned runs in relief.

Offensively, Palumbo, Roberts, and Boley each went 2-for-3 with an RBI to lead the Eagles at the plate.

Central Methodist returns to action Friday afternoon in the winner's bracket, facing No. 3 Grand View. First pitch is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. in Cedar Rapids.

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