Hawks dominate the Vikings on the diamond

The North Lenoir Hawks (7-2, 3-1) showed their resilience with a commanding 20-0 victory over the Kinston Vikings (0-8) on Tuesday. Despite some concerns over the team's focus and energy, several standout performances powered the Hawks to an impressive win.

Lakyn Whitley contributed with a 1-for-2 performance, scoring three runs and driving in one run, while drawing two walks. Hallie Fowler had a perfect day at the plate, going 3-for-3 with four runs scored and two RBIs, along with one walk. Fowler also excelled on the mound, pitching three shutout innings and allowing only one hit while striking out five batters and issuing two walks.

Alyssa Hatcher went 1-for-1 with two runs scored, one RBI, and one hit by pitch. Maddie Rouse made her only hit count, smacking a double and scoring two runs while driving in two more. Alivia Whitley had a stellar day, going 3-for-4 with three runs and five RBIs.

Skylar Harrison added to the offensive onslaught, going 2-for-4 with two runs scored and two RBIs. Haley Hemby showed great plate discipline, drawing three walks and scoring one run, while RicKayla Harper and Layla Wentzell each contributed a run and a walk.

Despite the lopsided score, North Lenoir head coach Bobby Hatcher said, "The score is not a reflection of how we played. Our energy and focus wasn't there overall. We looked flat." However, he acknowledged that some players made positive adjustments at the plate.

Looking ahead to their next game against South Lenoir, Coach Hatcher noted its importance: "It's a big game for us. It's our chance to bounce back from the East Duplin loss. South Lenoir is a good team and are coached well. They will be ready, so we will have to focus and play to our capabilities. If we do that, it will be a good game."

The Hawks will face South Lenoir on Wednesday at North Lenoir. Meanwhile, Kinston (0-8) will look to turn things around in their next game against Jones Senior at home.