CONNORVILLE — The Purple Riders softball squad seems tuned-up for the start of the postseason following a 12-2 five-inning road victory over Buckeye Local on Friday.

Maddie Lucas, Makayla Cole and Giana Chirpas each tallied three hits and three RBI against the Panthers. Chirpas and Cole each walloped a double.

Kendyl Brandon also recorded three hits. Gracie Lucas and Ella Mamone each had two hits as Martins Ferry pounded out 19 hits as a team.

The Purple Riders led 3-0 after two innings but plated nine runs in the top of the third.

Maddie Lucas and Mamone combined their efforts in the circle; Lucas throwing the first three innings of the game, striking out five, while Mamone tossed the final two frames. Buckeye Local scratched one run across on both of them, though neither was scored as earned.

Addie Jones had two hits for Buckeye Local. Frankie Sawko doubled. Karlie Lander took the loss inside the circle, pitching into the third inning.

Martins Ferry now prepares to face West Muskingum in their opening outing of the OHSAA Division V postseason tournament. The two teams will play Monday, with the Purple Riders hosting the Tornadoes.