Bethel Christian Dominates Alamance in Playoff Showdown
Bethel Christian Academy Trojans delivered a commanding performance in the second round of the NCCSA baseball playoffs, defeating Alamance Christian 10-3. The victory in Kinston extended their winning streak to eight games and positioned the Trojans just one win away from advancing to the state championship.
From the onset, Bethel took full advantage of early mistakes by Alamance, putting a decisive 9 runs on the board in the first two innings. The Trojans demonstrated their offensive prowess, amassing 11 runs off of 5 hits, with contributions from eight different players. Cooper Williams stood out with a pivotal moment, driving a bases-loaded triple over the center fielder’s head. His overall performance included going 1-3 at the plate with 2 runs scored, 3 RBIs, and 2 stolen bases, while also pitching 3 innings where he allowed 4 hits, 2 runs, and struck out 4.
Jamey Williams and Cooper split pitching duties, with Jamey also taking the mound for 3 innings, giving up 6 hits and striking out 3. The batting lineup saw solid contributions with Alex Hill, Jamey Williams, Jonathan White, Braden Cash, and Zach Harrison each driving in a run.
Coach Kenny Sutton expressed satisfaction with the team’s aggressive early play. "I was very pleased to put 9 runs in the first two innings; that makes it very easy to do my job," he remarked. He further praised the team’s approach: "The guys did what they needed to do, they put ball in play and put the pressure on them."
Reflecting on the team’s preparation, Sutton shared, "I knew we were focused coming into this game. They’ve been telling me for two days they were ready, and I have been preaching this is what you live for right here."
Players echoed the sentiment of readiness and focus. Cooper Williams recounted his approach at a crucial at-bat: "I was down 2-2, I figured a curve ball was coming I just tried to hit the ball backside and score some runs."
Looking forward, the Trojans are set to face Faith Christian (16-2) on Friday at Wilson Christian. A win there will propel them into the state championship game scheduled for Saturday at the same venue. "One game at a time," said Cooper, encapsulating the team's focused mindset.
In his post-game message, Coach Sutton emphasized the significance of the playoff victory: "This was the biggest win of the season. I told the guys great job. Anytime you win in the playoffs, lose or advance to the next round, that's the biggest win. Were we perfect? No, but that means we got room for improvement too. I am liking where we are at right now and our mindset."
The Trojans are now gearing up for their crucial encounter against Faith Christian, aiming to secure their spot in the state championship.
Attention all local sports enthusiasts! Do you have insider information on your favorite local sports team? Submit to The Score below and let our team of experts bring it to life. Don't miss out on the chance to share what happened at your local sporting event - submit now and become part of the story!
Neuse News Sports is a locally-owned small business startup in downtown Kinston. Our goal is to cover all schools, all sports, and all athletes in Lenoir, Greene and Jones counties.
We provide this free sports news by having supportive advertisers and we encourage you to click on their ads, shop with them, and eat with them. Every bit of financial support is important to help us sustain free, hyper-local sports news.
Please consider supporting Neuse News Sports with as little as $5 one-time or via a monthly option. Every little bit helps us, help you.
