New Kent uses high-scoring third inning to defeat Grafton in softball

New Kent’s Libby Britt uses an underhanded swing to hit the ball that would eventually turn into a three RBI-triple to provide a bigger lead.

Robb Johnson photo

While New Kent’s Lady Trojans softball team don’t have the same firepower on the offensive end as they did last year, when it does show up, it comes up big.

Using a huge third inning, New Kent proceeded to eclipse the visiting Grafton Lady Clippers 6-1 in Friday afternoon’s contest.

Grafton was first to strike in the contest as they scored a run in the top of the first. And after the visitors’ defense kept New Kent in check for the first two innings, the third inning became the gamechanger.

Lady Trojan Abbie Kegley’s line drive off the glove of Grafton’s third basewoman drove home teammate Alline Alexander. A single by Kennedy Ziglar drove home Alexander and provided the hosts their first lead of the contest (2-1).

Still in the third and with two outs, the Lady Trojans had the bases loaded. Libby Britt popped the ball high into right field. A misjudgment by Lady Clipper Riley Amato allowed three runs to cross home plate, stretching the hosts lead out. One additional run in the bottom of the sixth would contribute to the final score in the contest.

After the game, New Kent Lady Trojans Head Coach Maria Bates spoke about the team’s continuing success.

“We really had to put the ball in play,” she commented, mentioning the team’s strategy against Grafton. “We had to force them into mistakes and get the extra bases.

“Next week is huge,” Bates continued. “The number one seed in the district is on the line and we have to start by winning one of three games.”

New Kent’s record improves to 13-4.