The New Richland-Hartland-Ellendale-Geneva softball team won its first game of the season by taking down Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton 9-4 at home Monday.

Through the third inning, the Panthers clung to a one-run lead.

NRHEG scored three runs in the fourth and sixth innings to extend the lead to seven runs.

In the top of the seventh inning, the Panthers used late-game heroics to hold the Bulldogs to two runs and preserve the victory.

“Kelli Harrington had the play of the day,” NRHEG head coach Wendy Schultz said. “She ended the game by throwing a runner out at home on a close play. It was a perfect throw from center field.”

Freshman Anna Lundberg started at pitcher for the Panthers. She struck out eight batters and allowed three walks.

“Anna did a spectacular job pitching today,” Schultz said. “She looked very poised.”

Hannah Lundberg, Anna’s sister, started at catcher. Schultz said she was impressed with Hannah’s play as well.

Hannah led the Panthers by scoring three runs on two hits. She also earned two stolen bases and an RBI.

“The girls played well for the first day out,” Schultz said. “We’ll be trying to improve things throughout the season.”

Next, NRHEG plays at Bethlehem Academy at 5 p.m. today.