Branson, MO - Stephens responded with a strong performance Tuesday evening, defeating Mission 3-1 to stay alive in the AMC Tournament.
The Stars wasted no time getting on the board, scoring all three of their runs in the first inning. Mylee Hawkins and Elise Kendrick opened the rally with back-to-back hits before Addison Flores drove in the first run with a single up the middle. Landry Bales followed with a two-run double to give Stephens an early 3-0 lead.
That early offense proved to be enough, as Kendrick delivered a complete-game performance in the circle. Mission managed its only run in the fourth inning on an RBI groundout, but Stephens limited further damage and controlled the game defensively the rest of the way.
Kendrick went all seven innings, allowing just one run on seven hits while striking out two. The Stars also turned two double plays behind her, helping keep Mission from building momentum.
At the plate, Stephens totaled seven hits, with Hawkins, Kendrick, Abby Schmidt, Flores, Bales, and Leanna Mitts each recording hits. Bales led the way with two RBIs, while Flores added one.
With the win, Stephens advances in the elimination bracket and will move on to day two of the AMC Tournament.
