Southwestern Randolph’s softball team and Uwharrie Charter Academy’s baseball team are both one victory away from state championships after winning Friday night in drastically different manners.
Southwestern Randolph opened the Class 2-A state finals with a 13-0 blasting of Midway at UNC Greensboro. The game was reduced to five innings because of the mercy rule.
The Cougars (22-7) go for their first title in 14 years with Game 2 at 2 p.m. Saturday. If necessary, Game 3 will be held at 5 p.m. or 8 p.m., depending on the status of the Class 4-A finals also taking place on the same field.
Midway (21-4) had only one batter – Mia Gwynn with a bunt single – reach base against Southwestern Randolph pitcher Macie Crutchfield. The Raiders lost for the first time since April 25.
** At Holly Springs, UCA pulled out a 2-1 victory in eight innings against Northside-Pinetown at Ting Stadium.
Carter Brown’s single drove in the game-winning run, with Troy Carver crossing the plate. UCA tied the game with two outs in the bottom of the seventh to extend the game.
Jake Hunter was the winning pitcher.
That puts the Eagles (27-6) in position to repeat as state champions. Game 2 is at 2 p.m. Saturday, while a potential third game would come at 5 p.m. or 8 p.m.
