STONEWALL – The Minden Crimson Tide (12-9, 6-0 District 1-4A) picked up the most important win of their season to date, fighting their way past the North DeSoto Griffins in a pivotal matchup of district 1-4A contenders for a 6-3 win.
The Griffins entered Thursday’s matchup as the No. 8 team in the LHSAA power ratings. The win should improve Minden’s playoff positioning, especially if the Tide can make it a sweep of the Griffins tonight at 6 p.m.
Minden scored all six runs in the first three innings. On the flip side, North DeSoto was held scoreless until the seventh and final inning.
Trace Francis (5-3) took the mound and was the winning pitcher. Francis struck out eight batters, allowing just four hits and no earned runs for his fifth win. Justin McCready and Hunter Wilkes combined to pitch the final frame.
McCready had an RBI double to lead the Tide offense, followed by Matt Eskew who finished with a pair of singles and 1 RBI. Aubrey Dennis added an RBI single and Francis singled to round out the Minden attack.
The Tide have an opportunity to sweep the Griffins tonight at 6 p.m. Minden will be at home, and Tide fans are encouraged to come out in support of the sweep.
