Photo by Brittany Wade Kara Bauer waits on her pitch.
By Brooke Reynolds
Sports Writer
Hayesville Middle School Softball lost to Murphy Bulldogs 9-4 on Thursday, April 18 at home.
Murphy Bulldogs opened the scoring in the top of the first thanks to three doubles. Caroline Wade started in the circle. The starting pitcher allowed seven hits and five runs over three innings, striking out four and walking four. Micalynn McClure pitched four innings in relief. The southpaw allowed seven hits and four runs while striking out one and walking one.
McClure set the tone at the top of the lineup, leading the Lady Jackets with three hits in three at bats. Bree Wade also went two for three at the plate and scored one run. Overall, the team had a strong eye at the plate, piling up seven walks for the game. McClure, Kara Bauer, Caroline and Makenna Moss each stole multiple bases.
The Lady Jackets traveled to Murphy on Friday, April 19 seeking revenge against the Lady Bulldogs but fell short 8-6 despite out-hitting them 11 to five. McClure and Brooklynn Smith each collected three hits. The Lady Jackets jumped into the lead in the top of the fourth inning after Bree singled, Moss stole home, Smith singled and McClure doubled, each scoring one run. A double by Smith in the top of the sixth gave the Lady Jackets the lead once again but Murphy came back strong and the Lady Jackets were unable to finish strong,
Caroline opened the game for Hayesville Middle School Softball. The right-handed pitcher surrendered three hits and four runs over four innings, striking out none and walking eight.
Hayesville Middle School Softball accumulated 11 hits in the game. The Lady Jackets play in Robbinsville on Tuesday, April 23 and then welcome the black Knights at home on Thursday, April 25. Game times are at 4 p.m.