Tattnall County’s Battle Creek Warriors scored three runs in the fifth inning to seal a 5-4 win over the Panthers in Monday’s game at Liberty County High School.
Despite the loss, LCHS coach David Samuel was pleased with the performance of his pitchers.
“The pitching was more than adequate Monday night. Curtis Michalowicz and Richard Lovelady just came off the disabled list due to hand injuries suffered about two weeks ago. I was proud with how they pitched,” Samuel said. “Richard threw seven pitches against Wayne on Friday evening, and this was Curtis’ first outing since his injury. They both did well considering they haven’t been able to fully participate. JJ Holton threw a solid inning for us. He did not allow any runs, which helped us stay within one run of Tattnall, and Trey (Sikes, a senior) struck out his only batter faced.”
Lovelady gave up three runs on two hits in four innings.
“He hurt himself by walking four batters,” Samuel said. “Overall, I think he did a good job because he kept us in the game and left the game in the top of the fifth inning with the lead.”
Joe Watkins led Liberty at the plate with a single, a double and a two-run shot over the left-field fence.
“He was a triple shy of the cycle,” Samuel said. “More impressive than his home run was his drag-bunt single to lead off the fifth inning. He got on base to set the table, but unfortunately we could not get him in.”
Brandon Whitmore went 2 for 4. Cameron Harris and Deshaun Collins also had hits for the Panthers.
Liberty currently is 4-11 overall and 1-7 in Region 2A-AAAA.
The Panthers were scheduled to play in Ware County on Tuesday, weather permitting.