Jackson Jenkings leads the Hawks over the Rams

North Lenoir's Jackson Jenkings pitched a complete-game gem against rival Greene Central, leading the Hawks to an 8-1 victory at home. The junior pitcher was in complete control, allowing just one earned run off five hits while striking out six batters.

"Coming into the game, I knew these dudes were going to hit the ball," Jenkings said about Greene Central. "All I was trying to do was throw and let them hit and let my defense make plays. Every single position made plays for me, and knowing that just made it easy for me to pitch."

Despite an early home run by Blake Crawford giving North Lenoir a lead, Greene Central was able to tie it up in the third inning. However, a solo shot by Hunter Coulombe put the Hawks back on top. It was the bottom of the fourth where the Hawks really took flight. RBI singles from Braden Alphin and Coulombe, a double by Luke Cannon, and a 2-run single by Matthew Hill pushed North Lenoir's lead to an insurmountable 8-1.

While the Rams have now lost two straight games after giving up big runs in one inning, Coach Ben Brann was gracious in defeat, tipping his hat to the talented Hawks squad.

"They are really good up and down the lineup, and very good defensively as well," said Brann. "With the game tied, Luke Cannon made a really good play at third base that would have put us ahead."

The win was especially sweet for North Lenoir Coach Jackson Massey, who acknowledged the rivalry with Greene Central.

"It is a good little non-conference rival," said Massey. "Last few years, they got the best of us. I told the guys this was a statement win for us. Three wins in one week against three quality opponents is big."

Massey was particularly impressed with the play of Alphin, who singled up the middle to score Tyler after an 8-9 pitch battle at the plate.

"Braden is one of those guys that is a grinder for us and doesn't get the credit he deserves, but he is just so consistent," said Massey. "He puts in the work every single practice and every single game. He deserves that moment."

The two teams will meet again in Snow Hill on March 10th, and it's sure to be another intense battle.