Perrin SB falls to Chico in bi-district

JACKSBORO –After an unbeaten district season, for the first time in school history, Perrin had to feel confident going into Thursday night’s bi-district matchup with Chico. The confidence was shortlived as the Lady Dragons picked enough hits and took advantage of eight Perrin miscues in an 11-1, five-inning win.

Perrin ends its season at 15-6 while Chico moves on to face the winner of Moody-San Saba in an area round matchup at 15-11. Lady Pirate Coach Ben Staggs said a lack of playoff experience showed.

“Experience wise we are very young in spots and had girls playing out of position,” Stagg said following the 90-minute festivities. “We hit the ball hard but just at someone and we had some baserunning mistakes.”

Perrin actually outhit Chico, 6-5 in the game,  but the Lady Dragons scored in every inning, including a six-run fifth to end the game on mercy rule. The Lady Pirates started strong, getting off on the right foot in the first inning.

 Freshman Kelli Tucker laid down a bunt single to lead off. Tucker made it to third and scored on Joey Anderson’s single.

An error brought senior Lara Watson aboard but the next two hitters were retired to prevent further damage.

Chico scored twice in the bottom of the inning as a shortstop’s error allowed both runs to score after a leadoff walk and single. Perrin settled down and retired the next three hitters to keep the game close.

The Lady Pirates threatened in the third, Anderson coming through with her second single but being forced at second in place of Watson. Aubrey Chapman then roped a double to left but Watson was cut down at third to end the inning.

In the fourth, Blake Gaskill stroked a one-out single but courtesy runner Tara Hill was ruled out on interference. Chelsea Gregg reached on a fielder’s choice while Ashton Sims drew a walk. Both were stranded after a groundout.

Pitcher Kaylie Anderson opened the Perrin fifth with a single but was thrown out at second trying to push the issue. Watson drew a two out walk but was forced at second to end the frame.

Staggs said he enjoyed watching his seniors mature and grow through their four years in the program.

“You can’t take away the season we had,” Staggs said. “Going unbeaten through district for the first time in school history. That’s what those girls can take with them and build on for next year.”