West Lincoln overcame its pitching woes Tuesday and whippedFranklin County 24-14 as the Lady Bears won their slowpitchsoftball season opener. Four West Lincoln pitchers gave up 18 baseson balls.

“We really struggled on our pitching,” said West Lincoln coachAndrew Redd. “We hit the ball well and played good defense.”

The Lady Bears gave starting pitcher Brittani Phillips a 10-runcushion in the first inning and cruised to victory. Phillips struckout 1 batter and walked 8.

Directing West Lincoln’s 20-hit attack was third baseman HolliSmith who singled twice, tripled and doubled. Keri Easley singledtwice and tripled. Brittnee Smith doubled twice. Meagan Nealdoubled. Heather Huff doubled and singled. April Kennedy singledtwice.

Franklin County first-year coach Dana Smith said her team mustplay better. “We must be consistent in the field and cut back onour errors. We are struggling with our pitching.”

Lady Bulldog pitchers Valerie Cameron and Heather Havardcombined for 11 walks.

At the plate, Franklin County (1-3) was led by Alex Higgonbothamand Taylor Stewart who singled twice. Vanity Green doubled.Courtney Reed, Monea Cameron and Andrea Arnold singled.

In the JV game, West Lincoln roared to a 12-0victory, led by Shelby Lofton. Laina Laird and Stephanie Smith with3 singles apiece. Alexis Cook, Julie Case, Taylor Crews, AshleyMcCaffrey and Megan Lee singled twice.

West Lincoln resumes play Thursday at Brookhaven. The JV gamestars at 5 p.m. on Mamie Martin Field.