Learning curve continues for youthful Southern Wayne

By Ryan Hanchett
Published in Sports on March 19, 2010 1:47 PM

• Print
• Email

DUDLEY -- Southern Wayne took another step along a steep learning curve with a 10-0, non-conference loss to North Johnston on Thursday afternoon.

The Saints tallied only one hit, but survived to go the distance over the course of seven innings.

North Johnston took a 3-0 lead in the top of the first inning when Meredith Johnson and Lyndsay Trippett each tallied RBI base hits. The Panthers added three additional runs in the top of the third.

Six runs would be more than enough for starting pitcher Lauren Batten.

"This year I don't think that we can necessarily measure our progress by looking at wins and losses," said Southern Wayne head coach Michael Wiggs. "We have to continue to focus on getting better each day at practice and translating that improvement into the games."

Batten earned the win in the pitcher's circle with a complete game one-hitter. Madison Davis tallied the only base knock for the Saints before leaving with what appeared to be an ankle injury.

Davis took the loss in the pitcher's circle before exiting.

"We are going to need someone to step up over the next few games with our two top pitchers out with injuries," said Wiggs. "There will be an opportunity for some other players to get some innings."

Taylor Parker, the Saints, other starter, is out with a busted bursa sack in her knee.

The Saints (0-5 overall) travel to Spring Creek for a non-conference contest today. First pitch is 5 p.m.