After flying high against New Trier last Monday, Vernon Hills came back down to earth. The Vernon Hills Cougars fell just short of the Niles West Wolves by a score of 7-6 on Tuesday. The result was an unpleasant reminder to Vernon Hills of the 11-8 loss they experienced in the pair's previous head-to-head fixture last Monday.
For Niles West's part, Penny Hutchinson spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered four earned (and two unearned) runs on nine hits. Hutchinson has been consistent recently: she hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in four consecutive pitching appearances.
At the plate, Mia Mendoza and Ava Hester did most of the damage at the plate: Mendoza scored a run while going 2-for-4, while Hester scored two runs and stole a base while going 3-for-4.
Vernon Hills' defeat was their third straight at home, which dropped their record down to 12-13-1. As for Niles West, they now have a winning record of 9-8.
Vernon Hills will look to defend their home field on Thursday against Maine West at 4:45 p.m. As for Niles West, they are on the road again on Wednesday to play Jones at 4:45 p.m. Jones is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 6.2 runs per game this season.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
