ACP Lady Knights Softball Continues Impressive Run to State Tournament

ACP’s Lady Knights softball has cruised through the 2018 season thus far, heading into their home game against San Tan Foothills with a record of 8-3, and 5-1 in regional play. The Lady Knights defeated the SaberCats 20-7 to open the season, and haven’t looked back, racing to #11 in the state and a shot at the State Championship. The Knights have had no issue scoring runs this season, racking up 173 in only 11 games, an average of 15.7 per game, compared to their opponents 10.1 runs per game.

Dominant from Start to Finish

The Knights dominated this game from start to finish, and it all began with a dominant pitching performance by Kyleigh Mantell (11), who only needed 5 pitches to set down the first three batters of the game. In the blink of an eye, the Knights were already back in their dugout and ready to go to work on offense. The Knights got a quick start on offense, thanks to speedy leadoff hitter Taryn Foster (11), who led off with a single and promptly stole second, the first of three bases swiped on the game, before scoring on a Talia Owen (9) single and gave the Knights a 1-0 lead. Three batters later, a wild pitch scored two more, extending the lead to 3-0, five batters into the game. The knockout blow was delivered by Amber Butler (12) who capped the first inning scoring with a 3-run double to put the Knights up 7-0. From there, Kyleigh Mantell went to work on the SaberCats offense. She made quick work of the SaberCats, throwing only 59 pitches, 35 for strikes, in five innings. The Knights offense would add four more in the bottom half of the second and one more in the third inning as they cruised to a five-inning 12-1 victory. This win improves the Knights record to 9-3 for the season and 6-1 in regional play, good enough for the #11 ranking in the state for the 2A division.

Outstanding Performers

Kyleigh Mantell (P) On the mound, 5 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 2 BB, 5 K. At the plate, 2-3: HR, 2 RBI, SB

Taryn Foster (SS)- 1-2: BB, 3 SB, 2 R

Jessica Tells (CF)- 3-3: 2B, 3B, 2 R

Amber Butler (LF)- 1-2: 2B, 3 RBI

What’s Next?

The 11th ranked Knights have only four games left before the State Tournament and will look to continue building momentum to take into the tournament. There are only two more opportunities to see this exciting team on their home field at Andersen Junior High. Their next home game is this Tuesday April 17th at 4 PM against the Gilbert Christian Knights and Senior Night is Friday April 20th at 4 PM at Andersen Junior High against the Veritas Prep Falcons. Don’t miss your chance to see the Lady Knights march toward the State Tournament!