BENTONVILLE
Rain no problem for Lady Tigers
Wednesday's wet weather didn't slow Bentonville, which defeated Springdale Har-Ber 12-2 in a game called in the fifth inning because of the 10-run rule.
Haley Cornell hit a two-run home to highlight a seven-run outburst in the fourth inning for Bentonville (9-1, 3-0), the defending state champions in Class 7A.
"Weather is an equalizer and Har-Ber came ready to play," Bentonville coach Kent Early said. "We get behind early by giving up a home run, then gave up another run on two throwing errors that is not a characteristic of this team. We were able in the fourth inning to finally string some hits together, then had a big home from Cornell to stretch the lead.
"We're hoping the weather cooperates so we can play and find a rhythm."
Bentonville was in rhythm earlier this week with a 3-2 victory against Sheridan in a non-conference game played at Central Arkansas University in Conway. Sheridan is the defending state champion in Class 6A.
"Sheridan is very athletic and talented and there were several growth moments for our players during that game," Early said. "Being in those games against that type of competition helps prepare us for conference and the state tournament. We had several jams that we had to make plays and make pitches in order to get out of."
LINCOLN
Lady Wolves making strides
Lincoln is off to a promising start while trying to make the Class 4A state tournament for the third consecutive year.
The Lady Wolves opened the season with four consecutive wins and hold a 7-6 overall record heading into Thursday's scheduled home game with West Fork.
"Our focus is on finishing strong in conference play," Lincoln coach Beau Collins said. "We're hosting the conference tournament this year and grabbing the first or second spot will really help."
Lincoln is a veteran team with seven seniors on its roster. The Lady Wolves are 2-2 in the league with wins over Prairie Grove and Berryville and losses to Gravette and Pea Ridge.
Lincoln followed an 11-0 loss to Gravette with consecutive wins over Prairie Grove and Berryville. The 6-2 win over Berryville was particularly impressive considering the Lady Bobcats had strong girls programs this season in volleyball and basketball.
Lincoln has also played a non-conference schedule that includes a 3-2 win over Class 7A Fayetteville and a 6-5 loss to Class 6A Greenwood.
"We had a tough loss at Gravette, then came back with a lot of determination," Collins said. "I've been really pleased with our ability to hit the ball so far this year."
-- Rick Fires • @NWARick
Preps Basketball on 03/29/2018