Ellis strikes out 14 as Lady Trojans cruises to victory

New Kent's Brylea Ricks (left) slides into second base successfully before Colonial Height's Haleigh Reid can reel in the throw.

Robb Johnson photo

New Kent’s Lady Trojans’ softball team has been primarily known for their offence. But in order to in games for a championship run, they will need to play tough defense.

With communication on the defensive side of the ball and powered by the pitching of Gracie Ellis, New Kent defeated the Colonial Heights Lady Colonials 6-0 in the Mar. 14 contest.

Ellis triumphed on the mound, striking out 14 batters while the offense provided her enough cushion early on with three runs. New Kent maximized on base opportunities, adding three late runs and relying heavily on their defense to help Ellis pitch a complete game shutout against the visitors.

Lady Trojan head coach Maria Bates talked about her need to see her ball club grow through the year.

“We need to be able to adjust to any pitcher,” she said. “We came out in the sixth inning and made some adjustments.

“Overall, we played a great game and played solid on defense,” Bates continued. “Not too many negatives can be pulled from this one.”

New Kent improves to 2-0 on the season.