In a thrilling high school softball game that featured dominant pitching and timely hitting, Kimball Union Academy narrowly defeated St. Paul's School 3-2 on Monday.

Heather Cotter of St. Paul's delivered an impressive performance in the circle, pitching six innings while striking out eight and allowing just three hits. However, a few critical moments at the plate and an error proved costly for St. Paul's, as Kimball Union Academy managed to edge out a victory.

St. Paul's struck first in the opening frame, with Charlotte Voge driving in a run with a single. However, Kimball Union Academy responded in the third inning when Runge hit a key single to even the score. The battle continued into the fourth inning, where St. Paul's regained the lead courtesy of a single by Jade Hill. Yet, the relentless Kimball Union Academy tied it up once again in the same inning thanks to a sacrifice bunt by Pope.

The decisive moment came in the fifth inning when Kimball Union Academy capitalized on a St. Paul's error, pushing across what would be the winning run. Despite being out-hit nine to three, Kimball Union Academy's defense held firm, turning a crucial double play to maintain their lead.

St. Paul's top hitters, Hill and Voge, each contributed significantly, but it wasn't enough to secure the win. On the other side, Runge, Duffy, and Baker each managed a hit for Kimball Union Academy, with Runge also driving in a key run.

This tight contest reflected the intense competition and skill of both teams, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats until the final out. St. Paul's will look to bounce back in their upcoming game against Holderness on Wednesday.