BRIDGEPORT -- There was certainly nothing overwhelming about Bridgeport's offense. Rather, on this day timing was everything.
The Indians managed just six hits, but got them at the most opportune times at the expense of Liberty, downing the Mountaineers, 10-0 in five innings, on a cold, damp afternoon in Bridgeport in prep softball play.
"I thought more than anything, we had some timely hitting," Indians coach Paul Ayers said. "We didn't hit the ball like we have been, but we got them when we needed them.
"It gave Alicia (Potts) confidence and she seemed to be able to stay in control."
Potts, a sophomore, picked up the win, allowing five hits while striking out five. Three times she get out of innings with at least two Mountaineers in scoring position.
"Alicia gave us another good performance," Ayers said. "She got herself out of some jams a few times out there and for the most part, kept the ball around the plate."
Liberty stranded 11 runners, including a bases-loaded situation fifth.
Leading 8-0 heading into the bottom of the fifth, the Indians scored twice to end the game. Leah Miller led off with a single to left center and pinch hitter Chelsea Knicely followed with a double to center.
Miller would then score on a wild pitch, and Ashley McCauley ended the game with an RBI double to score Knicely.
Amanda Reed had two hits for Bridgeport, while Kayla Show scored two runs.
Mariah Evans doubled for the Mountaineers.
Bridgeport scored two runs in each of the first four innings. Reed highlighted the first with an RBI double.
The Indians visit Big 10 power Lewis County Thursday, then head to Cabell Midland where they will participate in the Cabell Midland Sluggerfest. They take on the host team Friday at 4:30 p.m.
"We've got a couple of big challenges ahead of us, but those are the ones that are fun to play," Ayers said. "Certainly they're going to be some tough games, but we're looking forward to them.
Sports writer Mike Nutter can be reached at 626-1444 or by e-mail at mnutter@exponent-telegram.com
