HARLAN — North Laurel remained red-hot, capturing its third consecutive win against a top 10 team in the 13th Region by holding off Harlan County with an 8-6 victory on Friday.
The Jaguars (17-14) broke open a two-all game with four runs in the fifth inning to take a 6-2 advantage. They added two more runs in the top of the sixth to push their lead to 8-3.
The Black Bears (14-13) attempted to rally in the final two innings but could only push across three runs.
“Braden Evans threw a great game tonight, picking up his second win of the season while allowing four hits,” McWhorter said. “We played well again defensively and had some good base running plays along with 11 hits to pick up the win. Another great day to be a Jaguar.”
Evans pitched 6 1/3 of an inning, allowing eight hits and five earned runs earned runs while striking out five batters. Andrew Cupp got the save pitching the final 2/3 of an inning, giving up only one hit.
Cooper Elza continues his impressive play at the plate, going 3-for-4 with two RBI and three runs scored while Carter Kelley delivered two hits, and two RBI. Cupp had two hits and scored twice while Cameron Hinkle delivered two hits, an RBI and scored once. Dylan Hurley and J. Douglas Gilliam finished with a run scored apiece.
Will Cassim led Harlan County with three hits, an RBI and one run scored while Aiden Craig finished 2-for-2 with an RBI and a run scored.
