3-run sixth by Ledford ends North’s year

By Jim Lisk, Editor

Thursday, May 15, 2008 May 16, 2008 09:30 am

— After there were two outs, Ledford scored three runs in the sixth inning and defeated North Stanly, 4-2, in the opening round of the 2A State Playoffs.
An error started the rally, then three straight hits scored the three runs as the Lady Panthers overtook a 2-1 deficit.
The Lady Comets scored two runs in the first inning when Megan Morris opened the game with a walk. Morgan Fraley then bunted Morris to second and she scored on a single up the middle by Jessica Roberts.
A booming triple to the right-center gap by freshman Cara Mason scored Roberts for a 2-0 North Stanly lead.
Due to a knee injury received in last week’s RRC Tournament, the pitching status of Fraley was uncertain until just before game time. But the competitive junior was able to go and went three innings, allowing one run in the third inning.
The damage in the third could have been much worse if not for a great throw from Mason in right field. With one run in and the bases loaded, Mason caught a fly ball, then gunned down the runner at the plate for an inning-ending double play.
Roberts relieved Fraley in the fourth and held Ledford in check until the three-run sixth.
“We decided before the game if Morgan (Fraley) could go that we’d let her go only three innings,” said North Coach Greg Speight. “She had not thrown any since last week. Both she and Jessica threw well.”
Looking ahead to next season, the Lady Comets return the nucleus of the team, losing just two seniors - Morris and Amber Bennett.

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