If you needed more evidence of just how equally talented North Stanly and Southwestern Randolph are, look no further than Wednesday’s softball game.

One night after North Stanly beat Southwestern Randolph 1-0 in eight innings, the Cougars returned the favor with a 2-1 victory in 13 innings. The win by Southwestern Randolph sets up a decisive Game 3 in the N.C. High School Athletic Association 2A western regional championship series.

In the bottom of the 13th inning, with the score tied at 1-1, lead off hitter Lillian Payne was walked without any outs. That got the game-winning run on base.

Payne was moved to third on a sacrifice bunt, then Madelyn Smith recorded a hit and brought Payne home for the walk off win.

Southwestern Randolph took the first lead of the game in the bottom of the third inning when Hayleigh Thompson scored. Smith also had the RBI on that run.

• Purchase Photos: North Stanly vs. Southwestern Randolph in softball (May 22, 2024)

Emma Sanders scored North Stanly’s lone run of the game in the top of the fourth inning.

Southwestern Randolph pitcher Macie Crutchfield pitched all 13 innings for the Cougars. Facing 53 batters and with 49 at bats, Crutchfield recorded 10 strikeouts and gave up 10 hits with just one run.

In two games in the series, North Stanly and Southwestern Randolph have played 21 innings and combined for four runs.

Game 3 of the series is scheduled for Friday at 6 p.m. at North Stanly. The winner of that game will advance to the NCHSAA 2A state championship series next week.

Source: highschoolot.com