It has become clear during the last two seasons that when Orange County and Monticello softball lock up right now, you’re almost surely going to get a top-end pitcher’s duel. The Hornets and Mustangs delivered again Wednesday night.
This time, the Hornets got the edge from a no-hitter by Hannah Hearl where the sophomore struck out 17 batters and walked just two batters. That gave Orange the edge and a 1-0 victory over Monticello.
The Mustangs got their own brilliant performance from junior Katie O’Connor who struck out 12 and surrendered just a single earned run and walked two batters while scattering four hits.
The Hornets took the 1-0 lead in the top of the sixth when Haley Martin got hit by a pitch to lead off the inning and then advanced to second on a passed ball. Ja’chelle Mosley then singled on a hard ground ball to right field and Martin wheeled around third and scored.
Reese Rogers, Martin, Mosley and Maci Fayard each had hits for the Hornets, with Rogers ripping a double. Martin and Ayla Fincham each stole bases.
The Hornets will take on Goochland at home Thursday night while Monticello travels to take on Western Albemarle on Thursday.
