Siloam Springs got a solid outing on the mound from Andrew Elkins and a timely defensive play from Bode Butler to help secure a 11-9 road win at Pea Ridge on March 6.
Elkins pitched for 5 2/3 innings that provided an opportunity for the Panthers to maintain an eight-run lead up to the sixth inning. Elkins had a 67% strike ratio and allowed just one earned run, Coach Michael Smith said.
Butler made a diving catch in the bottom of the seventh inning to help secure the win, Smith said.
"Being up eight runs and allowing the Blackhawks the opportunity to claw back into a position to win was a challenge that I do not think a lot of people realize has been detrimental to previous years' teams," Smith said.
The mental fortitude the team is developing is a characteristic winning programs must have, Smith said.
"Especially after losing the night before and being in a position where it could have been just as easy to get down emotionally and give up," Smith said. "This is the first time I felt that we went into a game after a loss and were not affected by past performance and clearly focused on the new task at hand. That is a huge step for these kids and our program."
Smith said he is proud of his team's maturity and the trust the players have in one another.
The Panthers opened 5A-West Conference play against Mountain Home on Tuesday. Results were not available at press time.
Smith said there are some things the Panthers needed to address before that game.
"There is no question the guys will work together to resolve some of the mistakes and is just one of many reasons why I love these kids to death," Smith said.
Gravette 7, Siloam Springs 2
Siloam Springs lost its first game of the year 7-2 to Gravette on March 5.
Bode Butler, a relief pitcher in the fourth inning, threw 84 pitches to retire three batters in a row with the bases were loaded. On offense, Butler had two hits including a triple and two runs batted in, Coach Michael Smith said.
It was a game that can discourage a team, but Smith said the contest was closer than the final score reflected.
"We lost a lot of momentum due to some missed and overturned calls that did not favor us. However, at the end of the night we have to take those things and put them to the side and reflect on our own performance," Smith said March 6. "There were moments in the game when we had opportunities to rally back, but were unable to execute. It can be a tough pill to swallow, but it is also a great opportunity to learn. So, with that said, we are not going to make any excuses and take ownership of the loss. Gravette is well coached and earned last night's win."