In a tightly contested NCHSAA 7A playoff matchup, the host D.H. Conley Vikings defeated the visiting Cleveland Rams by a score of 2-1. The low-scoring affair highlighted elite pitching and defensive resilience on both sides.
D.H. Conley (now 23-1) improved to an impressive record and extended their winning streak, while Cleveland (19-3) saw their strong season come to an end in the playoffs.
Standout Performances
Pitching Junior Kendall Howard was outstanding for D.H. Conley, throwing a complete 7-inning game. She allowed just 4 hits and 1 unearned run, walking 3 while striking out 13 batters on 125 pitches. Her ERA for the game was a perfect 0.00.
For Cleveland, senior Karsyn Hudacky also went the distance, pitching 6 innings. She surrendered 7 hits and 2 runs (1 earned), walking 1 and striking out 9 on 100 pitches.
Key Hitters For D.H. Conley:
- Taylor Getsinger (Sr): 2-for-3, 1 RBI, 1 double
- Ava Gaddis (Sr): 1-for-2
- Brooke Rose (Fr) and Anna Rose (Fr): Each had a hit and a run scored
- Harper Bradley and Sarah Booth: Added hits
The Vikings were aggressive on the bases with 6 stolen bases.
Cleveland's offense was led by:
- Izzy Sholar (Sr): 1-for-3, 1 run scored
- Avery Morgan (Sr): 1-for-4 with a double
- Maddie Murphy, Molly Pardue, and Abi Posey: Each recorded a hit
Cleveland left 12 runners on base, struggling to cash in on opportunities.
Season Context
This victory marked D.H. Conley's ninth straight win and advanced them in the 7A bracket. The Vikings entered as one of the top teams in the state. Cleveland, despite the loss, finished with an excellent 19-3 record and had been riding a long winning streak prior to the game.
Looking Ahead
D.H. Conley continues their deep playoff run with momentum on their side. For the Cleveland Rams, the 2026 season ends with many positives — a strong conference record and competitive showing against top competition. The program looks poised for continued success in future years.
