An explosive seven-run first inning sparked the visitingBrookhaven Lady Panthers to a 10-2 win over the West Lincoln LadyBears Thursday night in girls slowpitch softball play.

Brittany Smith was the winning pitcher with no strikeouts orwalks. Brittani Phillips absorbed the loss, striking out one batterand walking six.

Terri Hodges directed Brookhaven (4-1) with a double and threesingles. Brittany Smith and Ashley Sykes collected a double and asingle apiece. Singling were Julie Brister, Kelly Vinson, ChristiMartin, Katie Smith and Sabrina Delaughter.

“We hit the ball in the first inning,” said Brookhaven coachLisa Covington. “We must score every inning. West Lincoln has agood team. And this was a good win.”

The 3-2 Bears were led by Phillips with a triple. Belting adouble and a single was Carrie Fauver. Keri Easily singled twice.Hitting safely were Kacey Smith, Ashley McCaffery, Heather Huff,April Kennedy and Meagan Neal.

“We had too many walks,” said West Lincoln coach Andrew Redd.”We could not get our hitting going. We must be consistent on ourhitting.”

Junior varsity

The West Lincoln girls clipped Brookhaven 2-1.

Shelby Lofton and McCaffery doubled and singled for the Bear.Doubling was Stephanie Smith. Liana Laird singled. McCaffery’sdouble drove in Laird for the game-winning run.

Hannah Lowman paced the Panthers with a triple. Cary Anne Rake,Kelsey Freeman, Amanda McIntyre and Karlee Martin singled.