CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The Montgomery Central baseball team is on its way to the regional tournament. The Indians advanced in post season play following a 6-2 win against Portland High on Wednesday.
Portland High retired the first two batters in the Montgomery County lineup with ease to start the game. However, the Indians showcased their ability to put the ball in play with two outs. They ended up getting six hits in the inning, which included a double that drove in two runs by Hayden Boyd. The first inning concluded with Montgomery Central leading 5-0.
The Indians built on their lead in the second inning by adding an additional run. Cord Heflin led the inning with a single. He was moved into scoring position due to a sacrifice bunt by Jordan Johns, and scored on a single by Eric Owen. Portland managed to cut down on the deficit during the next half inning of play. The Panthers scored two runs off a bases loaded double, making the score 6-2 after two innings of play.
Another run was not given up by each side during the game. The team’s pitching rotations were effective and efficient throughout the rest of the game. Payton Sanders pitched five innings for Montgomery Central and earned the win. His stat line was comprised of 8 strikeouts, 3 hits allowed, 2 earned runs and 7 walks. Gabe Eddington closed the game out for the Indians, and he earned a save after two innings of work.
The contest not only decided who advanced to regionals, but also decided who faced Greenbrier in the district championship. Montgomery Central would have had to beat Greenbrier twice for a chance to win district, but ultimately lost in game one.
Coach’s corner
“We were run ruled by Portland in the first round of the district tournament, and could have given up after that,” said Montgomery Central head coach Todd Dunn. “Winning the two elimination games showed the resilience and character of the team. It was a great reward and I couldn’t have been prouder of them. Unfortunately, we ran out of gas the next game, but we lived to advance to the next round. I am happy that they get to experience the next round. With a win Monday we would get a chance to go to the state tournament on Friday in the Sectionals. I am confident they can do it.”
Montgomery Central travels to Murfreesboro to take on Central Magnet baseball on Monday. The time for the game is to be determined.
Coming up: More on Montgomery Central and the outcome of their matchup with Central Magnet.