The struggles continue for Centralia as their late-season skid hit a ninth straight game, falling to Shelton 8-1 on Friday afternoon. After showing signs of life just two days earlier, the Tigers couldn't sustain any offensive momentum, managing only three hits against Highclimbers starter Gouley, who went the distance.

McKenna Smith provided a bright spot with a 2-for-2 performance at the plate, while Lydia Lowe scored the Tigers' lone run in the fifth inning on an outfield error. But it was a tough day overall for Centralia (5-11, 2-10 EvCo), who committed six errors in the field that Shelton was quick to capitalize on.

The Highclimbers jumped ahead early, plating three runs in the second inning and adding two more in both the third and fourth. McFarland led the charge with a 3-for-5 day, including two doubles, two RBIs and two runs scored, while Lee chipped in a double and Fauula added two hits.

On the mound, Centralia's Lynch took the loss, allowing six runs (three earned) over three innings, while Lowe provided three innings of relief with two strikeouts. For Shelton, Gouley was masterful, scattering three hits and striking out one over seven innings of work.

Time is running out for the Tigers, who remain tied with Black Hills in the league standings with just three conference games remaining. Next up is a daunting challenge: back-to-back matchups against the top two teams in the EvCo, starting with Aberdeen at home on Monday. Centralia will need to tighten up defensively and find their offensive spark if they hope to turn things around before the season slips away.