STARKVILLE — While steadily improving, Heritage Academy had been looking for that break-out game in fast-pitch softball.
Such a game came Tuesday when the Lady Patriots routed arch-rival Starkville Academy, 13-2.
“Starkville had beaten us the last couple of years, so it was really good to come out and be able to play well and win,” Heritage Academy freshman Macy Walters said. “We had been needing a game like this.”
The Lady Patriots bunched five hits with 10 walks and two hit batsman.
“The thing about this game was being patient,” Heritage Academy coach Gary Harris said. “We wanted to sit back and make their pitcher throw strikes.”
The early lead was solidified by a key two-run double from Walters. That gave the guests an early 6-1 lead.
“She sat back, waited and hit the ball to the opposite field,” Harris said. “It was the game’s biggest at-bat.”
The Lady Patriots blew the contest open with seven runs in the third inning.
“To be able to win, you have to be able to hit the ball,” Heritage Academy freshman Brooklyn Waldrep said. “This is a big step in that direction.”
Heritage Academy bounced back from a hard-fought 6-2 loss to Washington Monday.
“We don’t like to lose,” Walters said. “We like to get right back out here as soon as we can to erase bad thoughts like that.”
The Lady Patriots (5-5) had good thoughts Tuesday.
“Two wins against Starkville,” Harris said. “That is huge for this program.”
Scott was sports editor for The Dispatch.
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