With the tournament around the corner, the Covington Lady Buccs had the bats going in a 10-2 victory over Bethel.

May 3, 2007 – BRANDT
The Covington Lady Buccs closed out a big week with a 10-2 win over Bethel, Thursday. The victory capped a week in which Covington also defeated Miami East and Newton, with the one loss coming to Ansonia.

"We knew this would be a big week for us," said Covington coach Lynnette Roeth. "The girls picked it up this week and played pretty well. Even in the loss to Ansonia, we played pretty well, but just didn't hit the ball."

Much like Wednesday's victory over Newton, Covington had success at the plate. The Lady Buccs scattered 13 hits on the afternoon, which resulted in 10 runs.

"We came out today and hit the ball really well," Roeth said. "Especially early on. Our first five batters hit the ball hard and we got out to a nice lead."

That was in the top of the first as Covington scored five runs and then increased with lead to 8-0 with three more runs in the top of the third.

"I think that sort of got them (Bethel) down," described Roeth in regards to building the big lead. "It's tough for any team to come back from that."

Especially with Jessica Shrout on the mound for Covington. Shrout pitched the first four innings and gave up just one run and three hits. She also struck out five batters and walked just three.

By the time Shrout came out of the game after the fourth inning, Covington had scored two more runs to increase the margin to 10-1.

Kristen Boggs entered in the fifth and closed out the game by pitching the final three innings. She struck out three, walked two and allowed just two hits.

"Both of the girls pitched well," Roeth praised. "Kristen is getting more and more confident out there and it showed tonight."

Numerous players had big nights at the plate for the Lady Buccs. Katie Dickey led the way with 3 RBIs on a 2 for 3 night. Dickey also doubled.

"Katie started out the season really strong," said Roeth. "We moved her from the nine spot to lead-off and she struggled a bit. We've moved her back and now she is hitting very well again."

Michelle Barhorst went 2 for 5 with a double and 2 RBI, while Erin Christian went 2 for 4 with a double. Kylie Lavey also had a solid night by going 2 for 3 at the plate.

"I'm pleased with the way we are swinging the bat right now," Roeth said. "Hopefully we can take this (the momentum) into the tournament on Wednesday and keep it going."

Covington, who improves to 11-4 overall and 8-3 in the CCC, begins tournament play next Wednesday at Vandalia. The opponent is yet to be determined.

Scoring by innings:
Covington ........5....0....3....2....0....0....0 - 10
Bethel ...............0....0....1....0....0....0....1 - 2