Good Game: Francis Howell Central 5, Webster 4

Both coaches agreed that this is a series we want to continue, despite the long drive. Last year we battled back from a 10-0 deficit to win 20-15 with an 8-run seventh inning. This year's contest was a whole different kind of game.

Despite being outhit, 14-7, and having only 1 strikeout, we battled to the last pitch, had the tying run on second base in the bottom of the seventh, and provided spectators on both sides with a close, entertaining game, falling 5-4. FHC has a very good team, but we proved that we do, too. Most importantly, we never became discouraged, never panicked, made plays when we had to. Bodes well for the rest of the season.

Kate Nieman had two hits and scored two runs with good slides at home. Maggie Pool returned to us and took charge in CF, including a strong throw to get a runner tagging up trying to score with a good tag by catcher Lauryn Greer, who also reached base all four times in the leadoff spot. Lots of positives with contributions from everyone who played.

Playing time is always a challenge and one of my jobs as a coach is to provide players with opportunities for success. Low scoring, fast games like this one make it difficult for every player to get on the field as much as she might want, or even at all. The Tuesday home game against Parkway Central has been designated as a "non-starter start," where we try to even out the playing time without sacrificing the chance to compete. If an out-of-town relative is going to be at a game, let me know and I will try my best to make sure (s)he gets a chance to see the player perform.

 Thanks to AmyJo Love for the pictures!