BATH (WLIO) — Columbus Grove is headed to the district finals after surviving a late rally from fellow Northwest Conference foe Allen East on Thursday night at Bath High School.

The Bulldogs earned a 6-5 victory in Division VI district semifinal action after the game resumed with Allen East leading 1-0 from earlier play.

By the sixth inning, Columbus Grove had built a 6-2 lead before the Mustangs made their push.

With the bases loaded, Allen East’s Maddie Miller ripped a line drive into the left-center gap, clearing the bases and cutting the deficit to 6-5.

Dakota Dunn helped the Bulldogs maintain control throughout the night in the circle. The senior pitcher struck out a batter looking to end one inning and finished with five strikeouts in the win.

Mariah Schroeder also contributed offensively for Columbus Grove, going 1-for-2 with an RBI.

Allen East pitcher Lauren Wireman kept the Mustangs within striking distance with seven strikeouts, including a key punchout to keep the game within one run late.

But Dunn and the Bulldogs were able to hold on down the stretch to secure the 6-5 victory.

Columbus Grove advances to the district championship game Friday at Bath High School, where the Bulldogs will take on Minster at 4 p.m.

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