FROM STAFF REPORTS

It took nine innings to decide the matchup between Chelsea High School and area foe Sylacauga in Class 5A, Area 7 contest March 29 before the Aggies escaped with an 8-5 victory.

The score was tied at 3-3 after seven innings.

Sylacauga scored two runs in the top of the eighth inning and Chelsea answered with two runs of their its own.

Sylacauga put three runs on the scoreboard before Chelsea could record the third out in the top of the ninth inning. With one out in the bottom of the ninth inning, the Hornets had runners on first and third base before Sylacauga reliever Matt Holland slammed the door on Chelsea.

Carey Emmerke led Chelsea at the plate as he finished 2-for-4 and drove in two runs.

Jake Campbell finished 2-for-4 and scored a run. Hunter Picklesimer went 2-for-4 with a double and scored a run. Justen Moore finished 2-for-4 and scored a run.

Austin Dean went 1-for-5. Alex Dean finished 1-for-4 and scored a run.

Joey Mock started on the mound and pitched seven innings, giving up two earned runs on four hits with seven strikeouts.

Tripp Hobbs gave up two unearned runs in the eighth inning. Davis Shoemaker and Emmerke combined to give up three runs on one hit in the ninth inning.