Defending champs take down Amherst

In an opening night clash of defending state champion softball teams, the Appomattox Raiders, from Class 2, began their quest for a second consecutive trophy by shutting out the Amherst Lancers, from Class 4, by a score of 4-0 on Tuesday, March 15, at Appomattox County High School.

Ace pitcher Courtney Layne fired 16 strikeouts for the Raiders while surrendering two walks and two base hits in a seven-inning complete game performance.

Layne also helped the Raiders with her bat, driving in the first two runs of the night in the bottom of the third inning for a 2-0 lead. With the bases loaded, Layne’s soft hit fell between the second baseman and shortstop and rolled into center field, which was enough to score Emily Purcell and a sliding Kelsey Hackett, who beat the throw to home plate.

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