Returning Germans Spark KILFs in Win over Balls So Hard

by Eric Schessl
Eric “The Bearded” Schessl and Josh Seidnitzer, who have both been out of kickball so far this season, returned to the lineup Wednesday night as the KILFS (3-1) faced Ball So Hard (2-2).  

It was a tight game through the first three innings of play as neither team could get much momentum.  A kicker from Ball So Hard kicked a ball to deep right field, bringing Eric Machuca in for an early 1-0 lead.  The KILFS managed to get runners on base, but were unable to capitalize as Aaron Thompson and Matt “The White Lightning” Harless found themselves in great position to make plays.

Ball So Hard went scoreless in the second inning.  For the KILFS, with two outs, Justine Sumrell kicked the ball towards third base where it was bobbled allowing Ted Phillips to round third and score, tying the game at 1.  Right after, Jeff Phillips’ kick soared just over third base and dropped in front of the outfielder, bringing in Brandon Covington for a 2-1 lead.  Ball So Hard Michael Peele dove in for an amazing catch that would end the exciting 2nd inning as quickly as it had begun.

                 

In the third inning, neither team was able to put any pressure on the other.  Ball So Hard had a line drive kicked robbed as Brandon Pickering made a diving catch at shortstop.  The KILFS were unable to use their defensive force to increase their lead.

                 

The fourth inning was a different story.  After a three and out on defense, KILF offense turned up the heat.  Chris Storar, Randall Hammond, and Kayla Via loaded the bases for Pickering.  A kick deep out to left field was too hot to handle and brought Chris home for the 3-1 lead.  With the bases locked and reloaded for a second time, Eric Schessl kicked a line drive towards second that got him out at first, but managed to score both Randall and Kayla home. KILF’s increased to a  5-1 lead and couldn’t be stopped.  Next up, Tyler Bowman kicked a sac fly to center field that brought in Pickering for to round the 5 up to a 6-1 lead.  Ted Phillips, Covington, and Kim Keith loaded the bases and eagerly waited to be brought home! With two outs, Justine Sumrell kicked right at the charger who although caught the pop, fumbled it racing toward the home plate.  Ted pulled some very matrix moves and actually maneuvered around the charger, catcher, and home plate to score!

                 

Ball So Hard managed to move a runner into scoring position in the top of the fifth with an attempt to rally, but  alas  it was too little too late. With the ending results being KILF’s winning 7-1.

                 

Next week Ball So Hard (2-3) take on Foul Balls (1-1-2), and the KILFS (4-1) square off against Boom! (2-1-2).

Justine Sumrell's had a standout performance, kicking in 2 runs.