Farmington, Minn. -- In the final game of the 2024 regular season, the Farmington Tigers secured a victory over the Prior Lake with a final score of 13-2.
The Tigers wasted no time in asserting their dominance, swiftly taking control of the game.
Kam Hughes ignited the offensive charge in the bottom of the first inning with a blazing triple, bringing in the first run of the game, followed by a powerful homer to center field from
Lila Johannsen, adding two more runs to the Tigers' tally. The momentum continued to build as Farmington extended their lead with three more runs in the third inning, courtesy of RBI singles by
Leah Oistad and
Brynn Lickfelt.
The Tigers pressed on adding four more runs in the fifth inning to widen the gap to 13-2. Johannsen showcased her prowess once again with a clutch single, bringing in another run, while Katie Klotz sealed the deal with a mighty homer to left field, driving in three crucial runs for the Tigers.
On the defensive front, Marissa Mittelstadt held firm in the pitcher's circle for the Tigers, conceding just five hits and two runs over five innings while striking out two and walking three. Peyton Chambers took the mound for the Lakers, facing a formidable Tigers lineup. Despite her efforts, Chambers struggled to contain the Tigers' relentless offensive onslaught, allowing eight hits and six runs over three innings, with three strikeouts and two walks.
At the plate, the Tigers amassed a total of 11 hits throughout the game. Klotz, Lexi Goring, Lickfelt, and Johannsen each contributed two hits, with Klotz and Johannsen proving particularly formidable as they drove in three runs apiece for the Tigers. Demonstrating keen discipline, the Tigers exhibited a strong eye at the plate, drawing a total of six walks, with Hughes and Klotz leading the team with two walks each.
Defensively, the Tigers played well, turning a crucial double play and maintaining a perfect fielding record with no errors committed. Hannah Hansen led the charge with five plays.
Despite a valiant effort from Prior Lake, Lauren Thurk stood out with a 2-for-3 performance at the plate, leading her team in hits. Kendall Hafermann and Lucy Barkley each contributed an RBI for the Lakers, but ultimately, it was not enough to overcome the Tigers' performance.
With this impressive victory on senior night, the Farmington Varsity Tigers clinched a share of the SSC title, marking a historic achievement as they secured their first SSC title since joining the conference and their first since 2012.
Finishing the regular season with a record of 17-3 overall and 15-2 in conference play, the Tigers will share the title with Rosemount.
