Defending softball state champion Indian Hills opened its title defense with an 8-4 triumph over Wayne Valley. The Braves pulled away in the late innings to secure the first round win in North 1, Group III sectional play.

Karlie Jo Greulich delivered an inside-the-park home run as part of a three-run rally in the fifth inning to break open a close game. Siena Mayer-Costa went 4-for-4 for Indian Hills, scoring twice and driving in a run.

Julia Collins delivered three hits and scored two runs for the Braves, while Shelby Allen had two hits and an RBI. In the circle, Allen pitched a six-hitter for Indian Hills, striking out seven batters while allowing three earned runs.

Shannon Piazza went 1-for-3 and drove in two runs for Wayne Valley, the 13th seed. Cassandra Gerard was 2-for-2 and scored a run, while Madison Hendershott scored twice for the Indians.

Wayne Valley falls to 12-13.

Fourth seed Indian Hills is now 21-6. The Braves host fifth-seeded Demarest in the second round of the states, and are also still alive in the Bergen County tournament.

For sports video highlights of this New Jersey state tournament high school girls' softball game, click play in the box at left.