In a score reminiscent of a football game, North Whidbey Little League edged Central Whidbey 24-20 in the first game of the district 9-11 softball tournament Monday, June 18, in Anacortes.

The best-of-three series to determine the district champion continues at 6 p.m. Tuesday. The third game, if necessary, will be 6 p.m. Wednesday.

The teams scored runs in each half inning, but North Whidbey did much of its damage in two. The winners tallied seven runs in the first inning and 10 in the fifth to get past Central Whidbey.

North Whidbey’s high-scoring offense was led by Loto Tupu who rapped four singles and scored four runs. Ella Bishop collected two hits and three runs, while Lilly Norman and Ramona Ryder each had two hits and two runs, Maya Shoosmith singled and score.

Leilah Edwards walked three times and scored three runs, and Cathrine Stone walked three times and scored twice.

Katie Cantrell added three runs and Breanne Marley two.

Madison McMillan paced Central Whidbey with a double and two singles.

Mia Farris had two hits and three runs, Taylor Auld singled and scored three times and Teagan Calkins walked three times and scored three runs.

Central Whidbey catcher Teagan Calkins throws to second base. (Photo by John Fisken)

North Whidbey pitcher Katie Cantrell tosses to first base for an out. (Photo by John Fisken)

Chloe Maarzocca fires a pitch for Central Whidbey. (Photo by John Fisken)

Maya Shoosmith singles for a North Whidbey base hit. (Photo by John Fisken)

Central Whidbey third baseman Madison McMillan hustles in to grab a pop-up. (Photo by John Fisken)