While the score might indicate otherwise, Monday’s 5-4 loss to Central Kitsap could have been the best preparation for the Spartans as they head into the district tournament.

“Yesterday’s game was everything that we could ask for,” coach Liz McCloskey said. “I think we made some mistakes that we shouldn’t have made, but it was an overall good game which is what we need.”

The Spartans (21-5) have lost four of their last six games, including a 3-1 loss to Nathan Hale in the Metro tournament semifinals.

Lauren Reichert (6-4), who took the loss Monday, will likely pitch in the Spartans’ first district game against Ingraham at 2 p.m. Thursday. Bainbridge defeated Ingraham 26-0 May 12, but the team was missing its starting pitcher, McCloskey said.

If the Spartans win, Haylee Baker (6-1) will throw at 4 p.m., McCloskey said. Bainbridge would face the second seed from the KingCo League, which will likely be Mount Si.