Willcox showed resilience and skill during their second game of the Little League Softball World Series on Monday. The game started strong for Willcox at the top of the second inning when first baseman Julie Larson, number 19, stepped up to the plate. Larson hit a hard ground ball to center field, earning a double and igniting hope for her team. She then advanced to third base on a wild pitch, showcasing her quick thinking and speed. However, the top of the second inning ended in disappointment for Willcox when a strikeout left Larson stranded on third.
Photo: Jayleen Aguirre. Courtesy Little League World Series. Used with permission.
New England quickly responded in the bottom of the second inning. A line drive by Olivia Graziano allowed Lawson Bastia to score the first run of the game, putting New England on the scoreboard. They continued to build their lead with two more runs in the bottom of the third inning. Willcox's center fielder, Josey Benavides, managed to end the third inning by catching a popped ball, providing a brief respite for her team.
Photo: Aaliyah Nielson. Courtesy Little League World Series. Used with permission.
In the top of the fourth, Genesis Quezada brought some momentum back to Willcox with a single base hit from a ground ball to center field. She advanced to second base, giving her team a much-needed boost. Willcox's defense also shone in the fourth inning. Left fielder Aleesa Sanchez secured the first out with a fly ball catch, and second baseman Kassandra Ramirez ended the bottom of the fourth by catching a popped ball.
Photo: Daylin Medrano. Courtesy Little League World Series. Used with permission.
The fifth inning saw another opportunity for Willcox. Julie Larson hit a single, followed by a ground ball single from Josey Benavides, setting up a promising scenario with runners on base. When Daylin Medrano walked to first, the bases were loaded, creating a potentially game-changing moment. However, a fly ball catch and a failure to tag up at second base led to two outs, abruptly ending the top of the fifth inning.
Final 0-3 New England.
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