The final score might have been 9-0 in favor of visiting ADM at the PAC Wednesday, but Perry head coach Tina Lutterman had several reasons to be pleased.
ADM had twice shut down Perry last season, with neither game going the distance. Their Wednesday meeting saw the Jayettes limit a powerful offense to just three runs through five innings until consecutive three-run frames to end the game widened the gap on the scoreboard.
“This is best we have played against them in some time,” Lutterman said. “I was really pleased with out dugout and give them a ‘shout-out’ for being so active. They were energetic and involved and kept us focused and willing to fight.”
Kenney also praised the play of shortstop Lydia Olejniczak and third baseman Macy Killmer.
“They saw a lot of action and played well,” the coach said.
Junior left fielder Kennedy Tunink also drew praise from her skipper after hitting a single, drawing a walk and making several fine plays in the outfield.
“Kennedy worked hard in the off season and you can tell,” Lutterman said. “She is stronger and more confident and it really shows.”
“We had a few hiccups in the outfield but also did well to cut off some balls,” she added. “We worked on throwing to the right base and not letting the batter take an extra base by trying to get a lead runner out when we can’t and doing that helps limit damage.”
Sophomore Jayna Kenney went the distance in the ring, surrendering nine runs (seven earned) on 10 hits. She struck out one while not issuing a walk.
“That is really key,” Lutterman said. “We know the other team will put the ball in play, but that gives our defense a chance to make a play, while with a walk you are just surrendering a free base.”
ADM left handed fireballer Aliya Yanga struck out 10 and walked three in picking up the win. She had a no-hitter going until Olejniczak reached on a single in the sixth, with Tunink adding a single in the seventh.
Tunink, Cassidy Heck and Taylor Atwell all drew walks to account for the other Jayette base runners.
All-state senior Abbie Hlas hit two doubles and a solo home run for the Tigers. Yanga and Sierra Wyant each hit a triple, with Brylee Person adding a double.
Perry is at Winterset Monday, Carroll Wednesday and Boone Thursday before returning to the PAC June 26 for a non-conference visit from Madrid. The Madrid contest will serve as Senior Night for the Jayettes.
