Raiders sit down Panthers

INVERNESS — South Sumter High freshman pitcher Morgan Mobley struck out six and allowed four hits as South Sumter downed the Lecanto softball team 12-1 in a mercy rule game at the Citrus Preseason Softball Classic on Friday night.

Lecanto’s Sidney Holstein doubled and scored the lone Panther run on a single by Amber Russo. Russo had two hits for the Panthers.

Lecanto committed five errors in the five-inning contest. South Sumter took advantage of the miscues and was aggressive, consistently taking the extra base.

South Sumter pitcher Mobley fed the Panthers some 57 miles per hour fastballs in a tough evening. The Raiders dominated the Panthers in a very strong performance.

South Sumter erupted for eight runs in the third inning. The highlight was a two-run triple by leadoff hitter Michelle Breen.

Lecanto starting pitcher Danyelle Yant took the pitching loss. Lily Parrish relieved her in the third inning.

South Sumter was missing its top player. Kirsti Merritt, the starting shortstop, was playing in a district basketball finale. Merritt has committed to play softball next year at the University of Florida.

“We are very aggressive and have lots of speed,” South Sumter coach Heather Kadur said. “Morgan was outstanding.”

Lecanto head coach Robert Dupler said five of his players were out of position. Two were hurt and two were not available.

“We are trying to find our identity,” Dupler said. “I’m not upset. It’s a preseason game. We are trying to find out where we can put people to back up our starters.

“I think she (Mobley) has a long future,” Dupler continued. “For a freshman, she is on the right path. We will be hearing about her for years to come. I think South Sumter will be solid. I’m thinking they may be the best in their district.”