Cash, Trojans’ Explosive Offense Power Bethel Christian Past NECP, Improve to 7-3
Bethel Christian Academy continued its strong start to the season Thursday, rolling past North East Carolina Prep 20-8 to move to 7-3 on the year.
The Trojans’ offense was relentless from the jump, scoring in four of the first five innings and breaking the game open with a six-run second inning that flipped an early deficit into full control.
Avery Cash delivered one of the top performances of the season, going a perfect 4-for-4 at the plate with five runs scored and three RBIs. Cash did damage in multiple ways, recording a triple, double, and two singles while setting the tone offensively from the leadoff spot.
Bethel Christian’s ability to manufacture runs showed throughout the lineup.
Lillie Turner scored three runs and reached base consistently, drawing three walks
Emersyn Smith drove in two runs and added a triple in a key third-inning surge
Suzanne Rouse finished with three RBIs despite not recording a hit, capitalizing on opportunities
Bailey Smith and Cameron Greene each added RBI hits to keep pressure on the defense
As a team, Bethel Christian totaled 7 hits, 12 RBIs, and 13 walks, showcasing a disciplined approach at the plate that kept innings alive and forced North East Carolina Prep into tough situations all game.
The Trojans also stayed aggressive on the bases, recording five stolen bases, with Bailey Smith swiping three and both Emersyn Smith and Suzanne Rouse adding one each.
In the circle, Bethel Christian used a two-pitcher approach.
Emersyn Smith earned the win, working two innings while allowing two hits and striking out two.
Suzanne Rouse was dominant in relief, tossing three innings and striking out seven, allowing just three hits and no earned runs to close the door.
After falling behind early, Bethel Christian responded quickly:
6 runs in the 2nd inning to take the lead
6 more in the 3rd to create separation
Added insurance in the 4th and 5th to put the game out of reach
North East Carolina Prep was led by Natalie Bunting, who recorded two hits, while Katelyn Knox, Hayden Boyette, and Avery Lassiter each drove in a run.
Bethel Christian Academy will look to keep the momentum rolling as they travel to John Paul II today (March 27) for a 4 p.m. first pitch.
