We're trying to stay on line and make sure we don't go too high or too low. The Ironmen gave Arnold all the cushion she needed by scoring two unearned runs in the bottom of the second inning. After West starter Jilian Widick struck out the next batter, Megan Patti laced an RBI single to center field. Kristin Lutes, NCHS' No. 9 hitter, then drew a walk to force home the second run. Widick escaped further damage by getting a force out at the plate and a strikeout to end the threat.
Lutes just finds a way to get on base.
Everybody is doing their job. Normal is very good. We were generous in that one inning, and that was the difference. There is no room for error against a good team. I know that Jilian wasn't happy with the way she pitched, but the truth is she pitched well.