Preston Varsity Lady Pirates dominated the Mounds Varsity Eagles with a 13-1 victory on Monday, driven by Josie Cope’s stellar performance. Cope led the charge with a grand slam in the first inning, driving in four runs with a single hit.

The Lady Pirates exploded offensively with an impressive 11 runs in the first inning. Kristen Houlby’s single and double, Na’Braijhanae Phillips’ triple, Kynlee Martin’s single, Ashleigh Hurt’s sacrifice fly and Aiyana Beaver’s two-run single all contributed to the onslaught. Cope’s grand slam added the finishing touch to the inning.

Preston continued to build on their lead in the second inning with additional runs from Taylan Starr’s sacrifice fly and Jaiden Harley’s tag-up score. Starr earned the win for Preston, pitching two hitless innings with six strikeouts. The Mounds’ pitcher struggled, allowing nine hits and 13 runs over the same period.

Houlby and Starr both contributed two hits each for Preston, who also stole four bases and committed no errors. Aiyana Beaver led with six plays, while Mounds’ Tori Fisher had the most chances in the field.

The Lady Pirates sought to continue their strong performance as they traveled to face the Mounds Eagles again on Tuesday. This Thursday, the Lady Pirates return home to face Latta in a 5 p.m. game.