Risky base running paid off for the Washington Demon softball team (12-25 overall) in their postseason opener Thursday. As heard on AM/FM KCII and KCIIRadio.com, the Demons made the trip to Maquoketa, battling the Cardinals (13-24 overall) in the quarterfinals of the Class 4A Region 5 bracket. Washington successfully stole nine bases in 10 attempts, leading the Demons to a 8-6 victory over Maquoketa.

Seven of Washington’s eight runs were scored in the first three innings, manufacturing 12 total hits in the game. Eighth grader Kinsey Duwa went three-for-four at the plate, driving in two runs and scoring three more. Senior Mackenzie Knutson and junior Jesse Buchholz each scored two runs for Washington. Duwa and Buchholz stole three bases a piece for the Demons.

Freshman Molly Sparks earned the victory in the circle, allowing six runs, two earned, on seven hits, walking two and striking out six.

The victory is the 12th of the season for Washington, advancing the Demons to the Class 4A Region 5 semifinal game versus the No. 9 Mount Pleasant Panthers (27-8 overall). The Panthers swept the season series with Washington, including Wednesday’s league doubleheader, winning game one, 11-6 and game two, 10-0 in Washington.

KCII Sports will provide live play by play coverage of Saturday’s regional semifinal at the Maple Leaf Athletic Complex in Mount Pleasant, beginning with the Washington Hy-Vee Pregame show at 6:30 pm on FM 106.1 and KCIIRadio.com.