Bucyrus - Columbian’s varsity softball team out-hit Wynford on Thursday, but a costly sixth inning proved to be the difference in a 9-5 setback.

The Tornadoes pounded out 10 hits in the contest, led by Emma Daugherty, Olyvia Steinmetz and Gabriella Conley with two hits apiece. Despite the offensive production, defensive miscues late allowed Wynford to pull away.

Wynford struck first in the opening inning, taking a 2-0 lead after a walk and a groundout each brought in a run. Columbian answered in the third, taking a 3-2 lead behind timely plays, including a run-scoring effort from Daugherty and capitalizing on a dropped third strike.

The Royals responded quickly, tying the game at 3-3 in the bottom of the third before regaining the lead in the fourth on a groundout by Morrison to make it 4-3.

Columbian battled back again in the sixth inning, tying the game at 5-5 after Gabby Shock delivered a triple and Daugherty followed with an RBI single.

However, the game turned in the bottom half of the inning. Wynford capitalized on two Columbian errors, plating multiple runs to break the tie and extend the lead to 9-5.

Shock took the loss in relief for the Tornadoes, while Maizie Mellott started in the circle, allowing four runs (two earned) over four innings. Wynford’s Robinson earned the win, striking out 10 while allowing five runs on 10 hits.

Shock, Daugherty and Conley each recorded an RBI for Columbian, while Wynford was led by Wolfe and Laipply with two hits apiece.

Columbian will look to bounce back on Saturday when it hosts Ashland.