Classical solves Danvers in Eighth Inning

Olivia DeJoie hit a walk-off RBI single in the bottom of the eighth inning as the Classical softball team defeated Danvers, 1-0, at Breed on Tuesday.

The game was a continuation of last week's matchup, which had been halted by rain. The teams picked up in the bottom of the sixth yesterday.

In the decisive eighth inning, Katie Cuozzo led off with a single. Two outs later, pinch-hitter Adriana Raymond reached on an error, with Cuozzo taking third. Then, on the first pitch, DeJoie hit a rocket down the right-field line to win the game and keep Classical's record perfect (10-0, 8-0 NEC).

"It was great," Classical coach Chris Warren said. "Whenever you have (players) come off the bench and get the job done, it's great."

Warren also saluted pitcher Mackenzie Coppinger, who struck out nine, allowed two hits and walked three in the game. In the top of the eighth, Danvers had threatened with runners on first and second, but Coppinger got the next batter to strike out and end the inning.

The coach spread the praise around after the game.

"(Coppinger) was phenomenal again," he said. "Katie continues to swing a good bat."

Danvers freshman pitcher Kendall Meehan had the Rams stymied for seven innings, giving coach Tara Petrocelli plenty to be happy about.

"I was impressed by her poise. It's tough to keep that offense quiet," Petrocelli said about her pitcher. "She's young and she's going to get better and better."

Petrocelli said the game was one of the best softball games she's seen in a long time. The Falcons are 5-3 with Beverly on tap for today. Classical is home against Winthrop.