BARBOURVILLE — Knox County kept its championship hopes alive Wednesday, defeating North Laurel 6-3 in the first championship game of the 12U Softball All-Star Tournament at Knox County Little League.
After falling to North Laurel earlier in the tournament (second round), Knox County answered when it mattered most, forcing a decisive winner-take-all championship game. The two teams will meet again Thursday at 7 p.m. with the district title on the line.
Knox County collected 13 hits and broke open a 1-0 edge with three runs in the fifth inning before adding two insurance runs in the sixth inning.
Croley Cain and Campbell Cain each finished with two hits and a run scored to pace the offense while Maci Alsip went 2-for-3 with a triple, an RBI and a run scored.
Jesslyn Messer delivered a strong performance at the plate, going 2-for-2 with a double, two RBI and a run scored. Isabella Abner, Killion Hill, Baylee Jones, Makenna Messer, Savannah Scalf and Ava Lawson each added a hit while Campbell Cain, Killion Hill and Savannah Scalf also drove in runs.
Croley Cain turned in another outstanding effort in the pitcher’s circle, tossing a complete game while allowing just five hits and three runs. She struck out 12 and walked seven to earn the victory.
North Laurel threatened with three runs in the bottom of the sixth, but Knox County held on.
For North Laurel, Lanny Greer and Kelsi Bray each had two hits and an RBI. Rylee Reid added a hit and an RBI while Mabrie Woods scored a run. Reid worked all six innings in the circle, striking out five.
Representing Knox County on the 12U All-Star team are Bella Abner, Baylee Jones, Maci Alsip, Makenna Messer, Tanaya Hughes, Jesslyn Messer, Maggie Collett, Killion Hill, Campbell Cain, Croley Cain, Savannah Scalf, Sophia Brown and Ava Lawson.
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