By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Rebels eliminate 'Cats, earn rematch against 'Doggs
2A9A4983.JPG
Christian Campbell (2) rushes to celebrate with Rebels teammates Jordan Rahn (1) and Ryan Harley after Harley laid down a perfect squeeze bunt to plate the winning run in Game 1 on Thursday. - photo by Mark Lastinger/staff
Staff Report
Effingham Herald
Updated: May 3, 2019, 12:11 a.m.

SPRINGFIELD -- The never-say-die Effingham County Rebels' quest for the Class AAAAAA baseball championship is very much alive.

The Rebels (28-5) swept the Valdosta Wildcats (23-10) 3-2 and 9-1 Thursday to qualify for the quarterfinal round next week at Winder-Barrow. The Bulldoggs defeated the Rebels 14-0 on March 2.. 

In Game 1 Thursday, Effingham County rallied from a 2-0 deficit. The clinching blow was a bases-loaded squeeze bunt by Ryan Harley that plated Holden Fields, who was pinch running for Chandler Hinely.

Hinely, Christian Campbell and Chase Howze also got aboard during the rally.

Late-inning heroics were unnecessary in Game 2 as the Rebels dominated throughout the contest. 

Effingham County got stellar pitching in both games. Ethan Johnson gave up only three hits while going the distance in Game 1 and Merritt Evans notched nine strikeouts while twirling six frames in the nightcap.

Campbell had three RBI in Game 2 and Dustin Johnson added a pair.

See the May 8 edition of the Effingham Herald for more details.