SHAWN DIGIANFELICE

Sports Writer

Cascade was within reach in both outings this week, but a pair of missed opportunities proved costly as the Lady Champions dropped district games to Summertown and Forrest.

Summertown – 7, Cascade – 6

A back-and-forth battle came down to the final swings Tuesday night, with Summertown edging Cascade 7-6 in a tightly contested matchup.

Both teams finished with eight hits, but timely hitting proved to be the difference.

Summertown was powered by Madison Ricks, who delivered the biggest blow of the night with a home run and three RBI’s. Izzy Garland added a strong performance at the top of the lineup, going 2-for-4 with two runs scored and an RBI, while Brittany Stephens chipped in two hits and a run.

Cascade answered throughout the night, staying within striking distance behind a balanced offensive effort. MoMo Bilbro led the Lady Champions with two hits and two runs scored, while MaKayla Fisher drove in two runs and added a home run. Caroline Parker also contributed an RBI, and Leah Tapp crossed the plate once.

In the circle, Jocelyn Laughlin went the distance for Cascade, allowing eight hits and seven runs (four earned) while striking out two.

Forrest – 7, Cascade – 2

Cascade couldn’t overcome a big middle inning surge Thursday night, falling 7-2 to Forrest.

The Lady Champions finished with nine hits, but struggled to string together timely offense as Forrest used a four-run fourth inning to take control of the game.

Shalan Burt led Cascade offensively, going 2-for-3 and scoring a run, while MaKayla Fisher added two hits from the leadoff spot. MoMo Bilbro, Jocelyn Laughlin, Caroline Parker, Alayna Cruse, and LeahTapp each contributed hits for the Lady Champions.

In the circle, Burt went the distance, allowing seven runs (just two earned) on 13 hits while walking none and striking out two.

Cascade (3-6, 0-4), will return to action on Monday as the travel to Eagleville. First pitch is scheduled for 6:00 P. M.