CARBONDALE – The Lions fell short in a hard fought battle with Marion last night, 4-6. The loss places their record at 1-2 for the season so far.

Due to rain and the condition of the Lions’ field, the game was moved to Southern Illinois University on their turf field.

Junior pitcher Brady Phillips started the game for the Lions. Phillips pitched a strong game with 9 strikeouts into the fourth inning, holding the score tied at one. 

To swing the momentum in Carterville’s favor, senior shortstop Peyton Bittle knocked in a trio of runs for the Lions, giving them a 4-1 lead after scoring on a single that skipped past the Marion outfielder.

“When I hit it, I thought it had a chance to get to the wall. Once it got past the left fielder, I knew I was going to have a shot to make it home,” said Bittle.

Sophomore Logan Ingle relieved Phillips at the top of the fifth, who was then relieved by senior Blake Barnard to finish the game. 

The Wildcats were able to tally 5 runs in the late innings, leaving the final score at 4-6.

The Lions play again Monday, March 27, at home against Massac County. 

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