MARSHFIELD — Columbus Catholic Varsity Dons erupted for seven runs in the first two innings and coasted to a 9-4 victory over the Iola-Scandinavia Thunderbirds on Wednesday, June 3, at Jack Hackman Field.

The Dons seized control in the bottom of the first when Carson Eckes singled, Carter Sommer flied out, and Tyler Hargraves flied out, with each plate appearance producing a run. They added four more in the second on Mac Konieczny’s sacrifice fly and Sommer’s double that cleared the bases.

That early cushion proved more than enough. Konieczny earned the win on the mound, allowing five hits and three unearned runs over five innings. He struck out four and walked four. The Dons’ offense provided ample support, collecting nine hits overall.

Sommer led the attack from the cleanup spot, going 3-for-4 with four runs batted in. Eckes and Rocco Maher added multiple hits apiece to fuel the Dons’ attack.

Iola-Scandinavia managed to push across single runs from Mason Kriesel, Broghan Gullixon, and Jameson Heshcke. Wyatt Wolberg paced the Thunderbirds’ offense with two hits in four at-bats.

Gullixon took the loss, lasting just 1 2/3 innings. He surrendered seven runs, two earned, on four hits with one strikeout and three walks. Ben Gruba followed in relief and worked 4 1/3 innings, allowing five hits and two runs, one earned. Gruba did not record a strikeout and walked one.

The Thunderbirds were unable to overcome the early deficit despite scattering their four runs. Columbus Catholic’s pitching combination kept the visitors from mounting any sustained rally, with Konieczny’s efficient start setting the tone.

The Dons’ aggressive start in their home ballpark created separation that the Thunderbirds could not close. Sommer’s production in the middle of the order proved decisive in turning early opportunities into a comfortable margin. Columbus Catholic advances in tournament play.