The Shadow
LOW MOOR, Va. (VR) – Laken Cantrell was an unstoppable force at the plate on Thursday, collecting three hits in four at-bats and helping lead the Alleghany Varsity Cougars to a dominant 10-1 victory over James River.
Cantrell’s stellar performance began early in the game, as she singled in the first, third and fourth innings, contributing to a well-rounded offensive attack that saw the Cougars rack up 16 hits in total. Her third-inning single helped extend Alleghany’s lead, setting the stage for more big hits from her teammates.
The Cougars started the scoring in the second inning, when an error allowed the first run to cross the plate. But it was in the third inning where the offensive explosion took place. Cantrell’s single drove in one run, followed by Addison Morris who singled in two more. Paige Webb also played a role, hitting into a double play that allowed another run to score. By the end of the inning, Alleghany had pushed the lead to 4-0.
On the mound, Emma Skidmore was in complete control. The right-handed pitcher delivered an exceptional performance, throwing four shutout innings and striking out seven batters while allowing just one hit and walking only one. Skidmore’s dominance kept the James River offense at bay all game long.
Makena Saville took the loss for James River after surrendering eight runs (seven earned) on 12 hits over four and one-third innings Tyra Rose came in for relief and finished out the game for the Cougars.
At the plate, the Cougars were a well-oiled machine. In addition to Cantrell, Bri Terrell and Paige Webb also collected three hits each, while Bryce Leitch and Brooklyn Hicks contributed with multiple hits. Overall, Alleghany displayed impressive offensive depth, with several players getting in on the action.
For James River, Sydnee Breeding, Sierra Ware, and Kaylee Harlow each recorded one hit, with Breeding also stealing two bases. Despite turning two double plays during the game, the Chargers couldn’t keep pace with Alleghany’s offensive firepower.
