Salem defeats Triton Central in semistate semifinal at Forest Park

After a pair of scoreless innings, Salem erupted for six runs in the top of the third and Triton Central never recovered in an 11-7 loss Saturday at the Forest Park Semistate.

The Lions added runs in the final four innings to hold off a valiant comeback attempt by the Tigers, who scored three runs in the fourth and fifth innings but were held scoreless in the final two.

Lillie Fillippinie started for Triton Central (23-3) and pitched into the third inning before Brylie Couch took over. Fillippinie allowed four hits and two walks while striking out three. She was credited with surrendering six runs, but none were earned.

Couch pitched the final 4.1 innings and allowed eight hits and five runs.

Adison Feist earned the win for Salem (16-8). She pitched 4.1 innings, allowed eight hits and seven runs before Jenna Little entered the circle. Little pitched 2.2 shutout innings to close out the victory.

Abigail Maynard, Natalee Boutelle and Feist combined for six hits and nine RBI. Maynard had a double and a home run. Kenadie Garlach had two doubles and scored three runs.

Triton Central hit four home runs in the loss. Fillippinie, Ashlyn Hittle, Makinah Noel and Madison Collins each fueled the Tigers’ comeback attempt.

Hittle finished with four hits and two RBI. Fillippinie drove in three runs.

With the win, Salem advanced to the semistate championship game Saturday night against Class 2A, No. 1 Tecumseh. The Braves were leading 16-0 when the game was suspended due to inclement weather.

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