The Lake Belton Bronco softball team punched their ticket to the second round of the playoffs this week, sweeping the Ennis Lions in a best-of-three series. With victories of 9-4 and 4-1, the Broncos are officially crowned Bi-District Champions and now turn their focus to the area round.

Game 1: Bronco Offense Ignites
The Broncos’ bats were in full throttle during the series opener, racking up 9 runs on 11 hits. The offensive attack, highlighted by extra-base power from Addison Sims, Alaysha Williams, and Madison Naser, who each recorded a double. Madison Perkins provided a major spark with a triple, leading the team with 4 total bases. Other notable contributors in terms of total bases included Williams (3), Brysen Gott (3), Sims (2), Analicia Diaz (2), and Naser (2). On the basepaths, the Broncos stayed aggressive, with Alaysha Williams, Alexis Walker, Isabell Magana, and Maliyah Gooden all recording stolen bases.

On the mound, Liliana Herrera started the game, pitching two and two-thirds innings. She allowed three hits and two runs (zero earned) while striking out three and walking three. Natalie Hosch provided excellent relief, working four and one-third innings. She allowed five hits and two runs (one earned) while striking out two and walking two to close out the 9-4 win.

Game 2: Pitching and Defense Dominate
Game 2 presented a stiffer challenge for the Bronco offense, but the team relied on a lights-out defensive and pitching performance to secure the 4-1 victory. Addison Sims provided the highlight of the game with a solo home run. The offense stayed gritty, with Maliyah Gooden recording 2 total bases, while Analicia Diaz, Madison Naser, and Madison Perkins each added 1 total base. The Broncos also capitalized on opportunities, with Avery Park and Madison Perkins both reaching base after being hit by pitches, while Sims added a sacrifice fly. Aria Newman, Madison Perkins, and Maliyah Gooden successfully swiped bases to keep the pressure on Ennis.

Liliana Herrera was dominant in the start, working six innings and allowing just six hits and one run while striking out four and walking one. Natalie Hosch then shut the door in the final frame, pitching one inning of shutout ball, allowing no hits, striking out one, and walking none to cement the series sweep.

The Broncos now advance to the second round, where they are set to face the West Mesquite Wranglers. This series will be a best-of-three matchup, with the first two games scheduled for this Thursday evening. A third game, if necessary, will be played on Friday.