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Superior Sun
The Superior softball team extended its season-opening winning streak to five games and remains undefeated so far this season. The Panthers defeated Salt River and Duncan last week in extending the streak.
Sophomore Ivie Lopez pitched a complete game in the 11 – 3 win over Salt River last Tuesday. Lopez allowed 4 H, 3 ER, 0 BB, and 6 K to earn the victory.
The Panthers’ offense knocked out 13 hits, including 2 homeruns and 3 doubles. Sophomores Ariana San Miguel and Gabby Salcido each homered in the game while also recording a multi-hit game. Junior Hunter Flanagan was 4-for-4 with 2 RBI against the Eagles.
Against Duncan, the Panthers’ offense continued to roll as they pounded out 10 hits, including 5 doubles, as they cruised past the Wildkats, 16 – 4. Hunter Flanagan was the winning pitcher with 5 IP, 8 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, and 7 K. Phalicitee Thomas was 2-for-2 with 2 doubles and 2 RBI. Hunter Flanagan and Ariel Alonzo each had 2 hits in the game.
The Panthers will look to extend their winning streak on the road beginning March 21 at Desert Christian followed by a game at San Carlos on March 25. Both games begin at 4:00 p.m.
Andrew Luberda began writing for Copper Area News Publishers (CANP) in February 2013 after working 15 years in Healthcare Financial Management. Andy covers sports for 11 high schools. His stories are published in Copper Basin News, San Manuel Miner and Superior Sun, in addition to the San Tan Valley Daily PRSS and CopperArea websites. Additionally, he has written human interest stories and business profiles. In May 2012, he earned an AAS in Sports Management at Central Arizona College before graduating with a BS in Communication from Arizona State University in 2014. He and his wife, Kelli, have three sons – AJ, Kyle, and Kade.
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