COLUMBIA – The Lawrence County Lady Cougars squeezed past the Columbia Lady Wildcats 8-6 for a big Region 7-4A victory in softball action Thursday night.

“We overcame a lot to get this win,” said LCHS coach Meleah Howard. “I am happy that we continued to fight after falling behind early. Elizabeth Smith pitched really well despite our defense making a few mistakes behind her.

“Madison Hyde provided the spark we needed with her three hits,” continued Howard. “Overall, I am happy to be leaving with a huge district win.”

The Lady Cougars (12-1, 3-0) return to action Tuesday as they ready to invade Purvis to battle the Purvis Lady Tornadoes in another huge region test. Junior varsity action starts at 5 p.m., followed by the varsity game at 6 p.m.

Lawrence Co. 8, Columbia 6 

The Monticello-based Lady Cougars managed to overcome a sluggish start after trailing 4-3 after four innings of action.

In the fifth inning, Lawrence County’s offense came alive as they exploded with a five run jolt to capture the lead at 8-4.

In the bottom of the fifth inning, the Lady Wildcats answered LCHS’s challenge and pushed across two runs to cut into the Lady Cougars’ lead, but failed to come closer as the Lawrence County’s defense stood strong to claim the win.

Elizabeth Smith was the winning pitcher for the Lady Cougars with seven strikeouts and two walks.

Hope Cook suffered the loss for the Lady Wildcats with three strikeouts and two walks.

Madison Hyde powered the Lady Cougars’ offense with a home run, a double and a single. Hitting safely were Alexsundria Thomas, Jazmin Thomas, Tiera Collins, Cheyenne Long and Lexie Johnson.

Jada Everett was the top hitter for Columbia with a triple, a double and a single. Daisy Rayborn contributed two singles. Carmen Perry, Jensen Greer and Abby Abrams hit safely.