Leavenworth ? Free State broke open a close game with a nine-run third inning, and the Firebirds defeated Leavenworth, 11-0, on Tuesday in high school softball.

Cali Byrn and Kylie Cobb homered, Emily Byers doubled twice, and Elizabeth Patton pitched a two-hit shutout for Free State.

“We hit the ball harder,” FSHS coach Lee Ice said. “The nine-run third inning was the big difference.”

The Firebirds (5-2) will play Friday at the Shawnee Mission South Jamboree.

Free State 029 00 — 11 10 1

Leavenworth 000 00 — 0 2 4

W — Elizabeth Patton (5-2).

2B — Emily Byers 2, FS. HR — Cali Byrn, Kylie Cobb, FS.

FSHS highlights: Emily Bermel 2 RBIs; Kate Stanwix 2 RBIs; Byrn 2 RBIs; Byers 3 hits; Patton struck out 4, walked 1, allowed 2 hits.

FSHS record: 5-2. Next for FSHS: Friday at SM South Jamboree (Maize, 11:30 a.m., Shawnee Heights 1 p.m.)