Mount Dora High outlasted Umatilla Softball for a 7-6 victory in a nail-biter on Thursday evening. The Lady Canes, coming off a tough 7-2 road loss against Lake Minneola earlier in the week, bounced back with vengeance against Umatilla, who had previously defeated them 6-0 in 2023. The win had an epic comeback in the bottom of the 7th inning that saw Umatilla up by a score of 6-2. Mount Dora appeared to be defeated until on of the biggest late game rally’s of the year saw Umatilla leave stunned.

Addison Ganus showcased a solid performance on the mound, striking out six batters across seven innings while conceding four earned runs and two unearned runs from seven hits. Ganus also shined in the batter’s box, going 2-for-3 with four RBIs, including a triple, and scoring a run.

Peyton Kolva from Mount Dora played an excellent game, scoring two runs and going 1-for-3 at the plate. Raya Vedder contributed significantly, scoring a run, stealing a base, and reaching base in two of her three plate appearances. Blakely Kite also scored 2 runs for the Hurricanes.

Umatilla’s standout performer was Brooke Moss, who scored two runs, stole two bases, and went 3-for-4 at the plate despite her team’s loss. Umatilla displayed strong hitting with three doubles and held a 6-2 lead going into the bottom of the 7th inning.

However, Mount Dora staged a remarkable comeback, scoring five runs in the bottom of the 7th to secure the victory, bringing their season record to 8-8. Umatilla’s record now stands at 8-11, marking a tough loss after a strong performance throughout the game. The win came at the right time and now Mount Dora has won 3 of their last 4 contests.

Both teams will hit the road for their upcoming games. Mount Dora will face Foundation Academy at 6 pm on Monday, while Umatilla will take on Vanguard at 7 pm. Vanguard has been formidable at the plate this year, averaging around 7 runs per game in the 2024 season.