KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
CORPUS CHRISTI — The Harlingen South Lady Hawks couldn’t overcome a six-run first inning by San Antonio Brennan as the early barrage led the Lady Bears to a 13-1 series-opening win Friday night at Cabaniss Field.
“We came out flat tonight and they (Brennan) came out aggressive in the first inning,” said South coach Elias Martinez. “We were in this spot last week, down one game and came back and won the series. The kids are upbeat and they know what they need to do. It’s the Sweet 16 and every team is here for a reason, but I know our kids will be ready to bounce back.”
Game 2 of the Region IV-6A semifinal begins at noon today.
The Lady Bears, who are in the regional semifinals for the first time in program history, showed off their offensive power with 13 runs on 13 hits. Kayla Sanchez hit a three-run home run in the fifth inning to lead the way.
South’s lone offensive run came courtesy of Kytana Muniz, who hit a leadoff solo shot in the top of the third inning.
Daisy Gallegos got the start for the Lady Hawks, but was pulled after 1 1/3 innings. Kaitlynn De La Fuente came on in relief and tossed the final four frames of the five-inning contest.
The Lady Hawks struggled to find their offensive grove throughout the night. South managed two hits and drew four walks. Both Muniz and De La Fuente went 1 for 2 at the plate.