The Clay Panthers mercy ruled the Symmes Valley Vikings Tuesday evening by a score of 13-3. The win wass a resounding statement by the Panthers that has given them confidence heading into the tournament.

“This was a very, very big win for our program,” said Panthers’ Head Coach Marc Cottle. “Symmes Valley is a very well coached team and has been at the top of the SOC (I) for years. Hopefully this win gives us a bunch of confidence going into the tournament next week.”

Keith Cottle pitched all six innings for the Panthers, allowing only six hits, three runs and three walks while striking out six batters. He also went 2-3 at the plate, hitting two RBIs and running two runs across the plate.

“Keith hit and pitched very well tonight,” Cottle said. “McGwire Garrison was huge at the plate, too, with five RBIs.”

McGwire went 2-3 to go along with the 5 RBIs, to go along with six other Panthers who brought in runs at the plate.

Clay has a single game left in the regular season as they host Whiteoak Friday at 5:00 P.M. The Panthers hope to come out with a win and continue their success as they start their playoff season.

Box Score

Clay 0 2 4 5 1 1 – 13 11 2

Symmess Valley 1 0 1 0 1 0 – 3 6 6

Individual Stats

W- Cottle 6 IP, 6 H, 3 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 6 K

L- Gothard 3 IP, 5 H, 7 R, 5 ER, 4 BB, 3 K

Clay- Holcomb 1-3 (RBI, BB), Gilliland 2-3 (RBI, 2 BB), Large 1-2 (RBI), Cottle 2-3 (2 RBI, BB), Riffe 2-3 (BB), Hadsell 1-3 (BB), Queen 1-3 (RBI, BB), Garrison 2-3 (5 RBIs, BB)

Symmes Valley- Gothard 1-4, Hayes 2-3, Meadows 1-3, Belville 1-2 (RBI, BB), Bowen 1-3