The Tribune

By CHRIS SIERS

sports@t-g.com

BELL BUCKLE -- Being only a sophomore, teams might discount Webb sophomore Rio Russell as simply too young and inexperienced to pose much of a threat on the diamond.

But Russell proved exactly why he's a double threat in Monday afternoon's 6-3 win over USN.

Not only did he fan 10 batters through a complete seven innings pitched, but he also clubbed a 2 RBI double to break the game open in the bottom of the second inning.

Fantastic game

"He threw a fantastic game going seven strong innings. It just goes to show the work these kids have put in the last few weeks," said Webb coach Larry Miller.

Although Webb (4-3, 1-2) took the early lead, USN threatened in the top of the fourth inning.

The visiting Tigers cut the Webb lead to just one run on a 2 RBI double to right field.

Just as soon as USN threatened, Sam Hulsey answered for Webb with a 2 RBI triple to right in the bottom of the fourth.

Challenge met

"We've challenged these kids from day one. When someone gets a hit, you get right back up and hit ball harder," Miller said. "When USN put two on the board, we came right back and put another two on the board. They've done what we as coaches have asked them to do."

At the mound, Russell pitched a complete game, punching out 10 batters, while only giving up six hits and two runs.

The win on Monday set a big precedent for the Feet baseball team in 2012.

"It was a huge win. I think we set the stage with USN today," Miller said.