In a thrilling game at Hazleton Area High School, Valley View edged Northwestern Lehigh 5-4 in the PIAA Class 4A softball semifinals. The win sends Valley View to the state title game against Kennard-Dale.
Key Moments in the Game
- Early Lead: Northwestern Lehigh took an early lead thanks to Sam Boyer’s run-scoring triple.
- Valley View’s Response:
- Zoie Krupovich hit an RBI double in the second inning to tie the game.
- Emily Moyes followed with an RBI single, giving Valley View a brief advantage.
- Back-and-Forth Action: Boyer quickly tied the game again, but Valley View’s Maggie Hullett and Ella Swingle both singled, setting up Ashlynn Palickar’s home run that scored Hullett and Swingle, giving Valley View a two-run lead.
- Final Inning Drama: Northwestern Lehigh scored twice in the seventh inning on an error to tie the game. However, with one out remaining, Abbi Call hit an RBI single, securing the victory for Valley View.
Valley View, the District 2 champion, will now face District 3 champion Kennard-Dale (25-2) at Penn State on Thursday at 1:30 p.m.
Coaches’ Reflections
Valley View Coach Mike Davenport
- Expressed pride in his team’s effort despite facing adversity throughout the season, including injuries and illnesses.
- Stated, "We’ve been through some tough times this year… but we’re just happy to be here right now."
- Looking forward to the upcoming game against Kennard-Dale, he said, "We’re excited about it. We know it won’t be easy but we’ll do our best."
Northwestern Lehigh Coach Matt O’Halloran
- Praised his team’s effort and resilience throughout the season, stating, "I’m so proud of these girls. They fought hard all season long."
- Acknowledged the team’s struggles with errors, which he identified as a significant issue throughout the season: "That has been our biggest problem all year long. We made too many mistakes today."
- Despite the loss, he noted the team’s successful season, as they advanced further than any other league school this postseason. He expressed hope for Valley View’s success in the upcoming championship.
Upcoming Matches
- Valley View will compete against Kennard-Dale in the PIAA Class 4A Championship.
- Northwestern Lehigh will play in the PIAA Class 3A Softball Championship against Pottsville at Penn State on Thursday at 1:30 p.m.
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