Russellville All-Stars fall in state tourney

MOBILE – The Russellville 12-and-under All-Stars went to Mobile in search of a state title, but the team faced strong pitching and was unable to reach the championship game.

Russellville lost the opening game of the tournament to Phenix City 2-1. It looked as though Russellville would dominate early as Judd Ward homered in the first at bat of the game, but Phenix City’s pitching was able to contain the Russellville hitters the rest of the game.

Cody Greenhill singled in the fifth, the only other hit Russellville had in the game.

Payton Nichols threw 85 pitches for Russellville, recording eight strikeouts.

Russellville managed to stay alive in the tournament by pounding Huntsville 14-3.

Colin Garrison was the top batter for Russellville, hitting for the cycle in the game. Cade Parrish and Greenhill both went 3-for-4 at the plate with Greenhill hitting a pair of homers. Payton Nichols and Grant Masterson were 2-for-4 — Nichols homered and Masterson doubled. Manley Wilson also hit a home run for Russellville while Ward doubled.

With the win Russellville advanced to face Phenix City again. This time Phenix City squeaked out another 1-run victory, beating Russellville 3-2.

Greenhill threw pitched 52/3 innings, striking out12 Phenix City batters. He also hit an RBI double to score Garrison.

Wilson hit a pair of singles for Russellville, while Austin Stidham, and Ward both singled.

John Pierce drew a walk and later scored on a passed ball to score Russellville’s second run.