Area title within Russellville's grasp

By Staff
Rebecca James, Franklin County Times
On Tuesday, the Russellville Golden Tigers (32-6, 4-0 in Regional play) cemented their way into the play-offs with a big win over the Athens Golden Eagles.
After the two innings, the Golden Tigers had proven just how badly they wanted the play-off birth, pummeling the Golden Eagles 15-1. The mercy rule kicked in at the bottom after the 5th after the Golden Eagle tried and failed to cut the Tigers' lead to less than 10.
"This is the first time in a while that we have been to the play-offs," said Golden Tigers coach David Ward. "It means a lot to the team, and we've eclipsed the win record for the school."
"The guys were so excited after the game, we really needed this win."
Now, the Golden Tigers are headed into a two game stretch that could vault them to first place in their area.
Russellville will play two all-important games against area rival Muscle Shoals on Monday and Tuesday, a team they are currently tied with for first in area play.
Two wins over rival Muscle Shoals would clinch the area for the Golden Tigers, who are currently ranked No. 3 in the state.
Two wins against Muscle Shoals would give Russellville hosting privileges for the first round of the play-offs.
"If we win against Muscle Shoals we will clinch the area," Ward said."Our kids have worked so hard for this, but we're not through yet. We want to see this all the way through to the state finals, that's our ultimate goal."