SPASH blanks Eau Claire Memorial, advances to sectional semifinal

By Patrick Lynn

STEVENS POINT — SPASH is one win away from a sectional championship after defeating Eau Claire Memorial 6-0 in a WIAA regional final Thursday at Bukolt Park.

The Panthers struck early, scoring once in the first inning before adding three runs in the second to take control. SPASH tacked on two more runs in the fifth and never allowed Eau Claire Memorial to mount a threat.

SPASH finished with eight hits while limiting Eau Claire Memorial to three.

Gavin Thiel turned in another strong outing on the mound, pitching six scoreless innings to earn the win. Thiel allowed two hits, walked five and struck out six as he improved to 8-0 on the season.

Royce Lown worked the seventh inning, allowing one hit and striking out one to preserve the shutout.

Darren Grabski led the Panthers offensively, going 2-for-3 at the plate.

The victory improved SPASH to 24-4 overall. The Panthers also finished 14-1 in Wisconsin Valley Conference play and claimed the conference championship.

SPASH will travel to Chippewa Falls on Tuesday for a WIAA sectional semifinal matchup against Menomonie. First pitch is scheduled for approximately 1 p.m. at Casper Park.