Two first-inning runs was all the offensive support South Whidbey softball pitcher Mackenzee Collins needed in the Falcons’ 2-0 win at Granite Falls Tuesday, April 3.

Collins struck out 15 Tigers and walked only one while tossing a three-hitter.

South Whidbey (2-1, 5-2) is now tied for second place in the Cascade Conference with Cedar Park Christian-Bothell (2-1, 4-3). The two teams meet at South Whidbey at 4 p.m. Thursday, April 5.

South Whidbey 2, Granite Falls 0

The Falcons scored both runs in the first inning after two outs. Bella Northrup walked, Collins reached on an error and Natalie Wilmoth was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Melody Wilkie forced in a run with a walk, and Sophia Olson singled in Collins.

That was it for the scoring, as the Falcons left a runner in scoring position in four other innings. That was not a problem as Collins mowed down Granite Falls (0-2, 2-4).

The Tigers threatened three times, and each time Collins stopped the potential rallies with strikeouts.

With two outs in the third inning, a walk, single and stolen base put runnings at second and third. Collins ended inning with a strikeout.

In the fourth, a one-out single and two stolen bases landed a runner a third, but Collins stranded the runner by fanning the next two batters.

The Tiger leadoff hitter singled in the sixth; two K’s around a fly out finished the inning.

Collins also had two hits, both doubles, to lead the offense. Bekah Merrow also doubled, and Makenna Morley, Olson and Ari Marshall all singled.