Several switches on defense led to several problems as the South Whidbey High School softball team lost 12-0 in six innings to visiting Coupeville Saturday, March 17.

The Falcons were missing their starting catcher, and that caused a domino effect on the South Whidbey defense. Players were moved to unfamiliar positions and the result was a shaky defensive effort by the Falcons, according to coach Alexandra Walter.

“We had to make huge changes,” Walter said. “Some of the kids were playing in new positions for the first time.”

South Whidbey committed four errors, leading to 10 unearned runs.

Starting pitcher Mackenzee Collins pitched well, striking out 10 and walking only one in four innings of work, but she was tagged for seven runs, only one earned.

Collins also collected the Falcons’ only hit off Coupeville pitcher Katrina McGranahan, a second-inning double.

“We got the bat on the ball,” Walter said, but the Falcons couldn’t find holes in the Wolves’ defense. The Falcons struck out only three times.

Despite the defensive problems, Walter was pleased on how her team handled the changes.

“Natalie (Wilmoth) never caught before and did amazing,” Walter said. “Everybody did their job.”

South Whidbey (0-1) hosts Concrete (0-2) at 4 p.m. Monday, March 19.

Lexi Starets-Foote puts the ball in play before it reaches Coupeville catcher Sarah Wright. (Photo by John Fisken)

Falcon catcher Natalie Wilmoth looks in a pitch. (Photo by John Fisken)