Willard — Columbian JV built an early lead but could not hold off a surging Willard squad, falling 12-10 in a back-and-forth junior varsity contest Wednesday.

The Tornadoes came out strong in the top of the first inning, scoring five runs to take control. Audrey Sharp delivered an RBI double, while Madisyn Adams and Autumn England each drew bases-loaded walks. Columbian also capitalized on aggressive baserunning, scoring twice on steals of home.

Willard answered immediately in the bottom half of the inning, putting up five runs of its own to even the score. The Crimson Flashes continued to apply pressure in the second inning, adding four more runs behind timely hits, including a two-run triple by Jocelyn Striker, to take a 9-6 lead.

Columbian stayed within striking distance and got a spark in the fourth inning when Sharp raced around the bases for an inside-the-park home run.

Sharp led the Tornadoes offensively, going 2-for-3 with two RBIs, while England also collected two hits. Columbian showed patience at the plate with nine walks and was aggressive on the basepaths, stealing an impressive 26 bases in the game.

Columbian will look to bounce back Thursday when it hosts Fremont Ross.