Photos courtesy of Jenea Murphy Taylor

 

Clay County, NC- Swain County Ace Charlie Collins continued his streak of dominance on the mound on Thursday night against Hayesville, leading his team to a 10-4 victory. Collins lasted 5 innings while only allowing 1 run off of 3 hits and striking out 9 Hayesville batters.

This big win put Swain County in the driver’s seat for first place in the Smoky Mountain Conference, and they guarantee themselves at least a share of the crown if they sweep Andrews next week.

Things didn’t look great for the Maroon Devils early on, as the Jackets jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning.

After ghe shaky start, Collins settled in and pounded the strike zone for the rest of his time in the game.

Offensively, Swain had no shortage of firepower as they scored multiple runs in the 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th innings.

Carter Hayes had one of the more impressive outings I’ve seen working behind the plate and at bat. Hayes went 2-4 at the plate with 2 triples and 3 runs batted in, and also was perfect at the Catcher spot for Swain as he didn’t allow a passed ball all night.

Gabe Lillard was able to show off his speed hitting a triple of his own and then stealing 2 bags after drawing a walk in his next at bat.

Charlie Collins, Lawson Woodard, Carson Taylor and Cooper Hyatt all also managed multiple hits for the Maroon Devils.

Taylor came on in relief and closed the game out, allowing 2 earned runs on 2 hits over the final 2 innings.

Up next for Swain County is a home and home series with Andrews next week. Most eyes will be on the Hayesville-Murphy series however, as the Bulldogs will try to get there share of the SMC title by sweeping Hayesville. Next week will be one of those rare times where Maroon Devil fans will be pulling for the Yellow Jackets, as a Jacket win means a sole SMC Championship for Swain (barring any upset vs Andrews).