It was a thrilling, high-scoring showdown in game one on Friday, but despite a valiant effort, the Eagles fell short to the Spring Lake Varsity Lakers, losing 20-16 in an absolute slugfest. Both teams racked up 20 hits, but it was Spring Lake's timely rallies that ultimately made the difference.

The Eagles weren’t going down without a fight. In the bottom of the second, a ground out by Greta Holman, followed by doubles from Jaslene McWilliams and Maren Leech, helped them tie up the score at 6-6.

Just when it seemed like the Eagles might take control, the Lakers stormed back in the third, scoring five runs on five hits. The highlight of the inning came from a monstrous three-run homer to left field, putting Spring Lake ahead 11-6.

Not to be outdone, the Eagles answered in the bottom of the fourth with a two-run homer from Keira Porte, cutting the deficit to 11-8. The Eagles continued to do work at the place scoring six runs on five hits in the bottom of the 5th. Alexis Willis doubled, scoring one, followed by Addie Rodenhouse, who singled to bring in two more. McWilliams also delivered, singling to drive in two, while Karina Mora’s groundout scored the final run of the inning, giving the Eagles a 14-11 lead.

But Spring Lake had one last twist in store. In the top of the seventh, they answered with a dramatic five-run outburst, capped by a dropped third strike that drove in two runs, pushing the Lakers ahead 20-15.

On the mound, Rae Cummings started for the Eagles, allowing 16 hits and 14 runs (12 earned) in three and a third innings of work, while striking out two and walking three. Reese Mersman Can in during the 5th inning, only giving up 4 hits and 6 runs (6 earned) in 3 innings, while striking out one and walking three.

Offensively, the Eagles had a strong showing with 20 hits, led by McWilliams who went 4-for-5 with 4 RBIs. Cummings also had a standout game, collecting four hits, while Willis had three hits, and Mora, Porte, Holman, and Rodenhouse each two hits. Maren Leech had one hit that brought in a run. Ellie VandeGriend showed a keen eye at the plate, walking three times. As a team, Grand Rapids Christian stole six bases, with Willis and Cummings each swiping multiple bags.