Local teams Sandy Creek and Starr's Mill brought their rivalry to a whole new level as they faced each other three times on Saturday. Both the Panthers and the Patriots handled their Friday night competition, as Starr's Mill defeated Woodward 6-5 on the strong play of Jamie Vining, Sarah Scott and Sandy Creek defeated Creekside 14-0 with a strong pitching performance by senior Heather Kershaw who struck out seven batters and only gave up one hit.

The next day the battle began at 10 a.m. The Panthers would have to get beyond the dominating pitching of Heather Kershaw if they were to advance to the sectionals and they rose to the challenge. Starr's Mill got five hits off of Kershaw and ran the bases extremely well, winning by a score of 4-2. Freshmen Stacy Ballew closed the game for the Patriots only giving up one hit.

After Sandy Creek defeated Woodward Academy 9-2 and Starr's Mill defeated Creekside, it was clear that the Patriots and Panthers would have to play at least one more time. If Starr's Mill could pull out another win over Sandy Creek they would win the region. Since the Panthers had begun to show confidence in hitting against Kershaw, Tika Hayes pitched for the Patriots in the playoff game. She was awesome,facing 26 batters, striking out eight and giving up only two hits. Sandy Creek shutout the Panthers 9-0 and forced the if game.

In their third and final game of the tournament, Sandy Creek went with Hayes again. She pitched well but gave up two runs off of three hits. It was evident the sophomore was tired. The Patriots won the game 3-2 but both teams will advance to the Sectionals which start October 10 in Conyers.

Back to the Top of the PageBack to the Sports Home Page