In a compelling match at Civitan Park, Southern's ace pitcher Brandon Laudermilt delivered an outstanding performance with six innings of five-hit ball, leading his team to a decisive 10-2 victory over Belpre. Meanwhile, Chris Copen put up a commendable effort for the Golden Eagles but ultimately fell short against Southern's offensive surge.
Brandon Laudermilt showcased his prowess on the mound, striking out a dozen batters while allowing only five hits over six innings. His dominance helped secure Southern's season sweep over Belpre, improving their record to 8-5. Despite facing challenges early in the game, Laudermilt maintained composure and capitalized on crucial moments to extend his team's lead.
Laudermilt's performance was nothing short of spectacular. In the first inning, he worked around a walk to designated hitter Carson Reuter by striking out the side. The turning point came when he singled to center field, advancing runners and setting up a pivotal scoring play. His ability to maneuver through tight situations proved invaluable as he consistently thwarted Belpre's attempts to rally. With each inning, Laudermilt's confidence grew, culminating in a masterful display that left spectators in awe.
Under the guidance of head coach Nate Watson, Belpre pushed hard but could not overcome Southern's relentless offense. Their lone runs came in the third inning after some strategic plays, including a run-scoring single by Carson Moore. However, Southern's pitching and defensive acumen stifled any further advances from the Golden Eagles.
The Golden Eagles displayed resilience despite the odds stacked against them. Center fielder Adrik McLaughlin contributed significantly with a single back up the box, followed by a series of strategic moves that temporarily narrowed the gap. Unfortunately, Southern's defense tightened its grip, limiting Belpre to just two hits beyond the third inning. Coach Watson acknowledged the strength of their opponent, recognizing the need for improved execution to counteract errors and passed balls that compounded their difficulties. As they prepare for their next matchup against Waterford, the Golden Eagles aim to channel this experience into a more cohesive and competitive effort.