Maple Grove senior Jordan Mauch belted a game-winning two-run home run over the center field fence in the bottom of the ninth to lift Maple Grove to a 3-1 victory over Elk River on Thursday at Maple Grove High School.

Mauch was one of many stars for the No. 1-ranked Crimson in the win over defending state Class 3A champion and No. 3 Elk River.

"Our pitcher Sydney Smith was awesome on the mound, she pitched fantastic," Maple Grove coach Jim Koltes said. "And Maddie Gordan saved us with her throw from right field to home plate for the out to save the game and keep the score 1-1 in the eighth inning, and of course Jordan's home run was awesome."

The game was tied a 1 entering the ninth, with the Crimson’s run coming on a fifth-inning home run by junior Shannon McMurphy.

Elk River, the defending Class 3A state champion, opened the scoring in the fourth inning.

Smith, who has committed to play at LSU, went the distance to earn the victory.

Koltes pointed out two key bunts from number-four hitter Sarah Southorn to advance runners to second and third base as being pivotal for the Crimson.

Maple Grove's next game is against non conference foe Anoka, while Elk River will try to regroup versus Coon Rapids at home on Friday night.

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