SHAWN DIGIANFELICE

Sports Writer

The Community Viqueens (32-9), opened the TSSAA Class AA State Softball Tournament in dominant fashion Tuesday, riding another overpowering performance from Annie Prince and timely extra-base hitting to a 5-1 victory over Kingston.

After three scoreless innings to begin the game, Community finally broke through in the fourth inning and never looked back. The Viqueens plated three runs in the frame before adding two more insurance runs in the sixth to take full control.

Prince once again delivered on the biggest stage. The senior right-hander tossed a complete-game two-hitter, allowing just one unearned run while striking out 14 batters and walking three (two intentional).

Community finished with seven hits, but made the most of every scoring opportunity while capitalizing on Kingston miscues.

Haylee Webb sparked the offense with a huge night at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a double, triple, two runs scored and three RBIs. Prince also helped her own cause with a hit and two RBIs. Anna Haskins and Kamryn Farrell each added hits for the Viqueens, while Gracie Daniel had two infield singles and scored twice.

Community broke the scoreless tie in the fourth inning when Webb delivered the game’s biggest swing, driving in runs as the Viqueens grabbed a 3-0 lead.

Kingston pushed across its lone run in the sixth inning, but Community immediately answered with two more runs in the bottom half to put the game away.

The win by the Viqueens sets up a winner’s bracket contest with Unicoi County on Tuesday at 10:00 A.M.