Chris Girandola, Times Correspondent
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
SEMINOLE — It wasn't exactly the opponent Kerry Kachuk wanted in his first gig as replacement coach, but after Palm Harbor University dispatched Seminole in a 2-0 victory Tuesday, it will suit him just fine.
"It was a nice win, but it will be nice when (PHU coach Chuck Poetter) gets back," said Kachuk, who is at the helm for two games since Poetter was ejected in the Hurricanes' contest against Dunedin last week.
PHU junior pitcher Taylor Sabol made things easy for Kachuk as the left-hander held the Warhawks to two hits in the complete-game victory.
"It's probably one of the best games I've pitched this year," said Sabol (9-3), who had five strikeouts. "Part of it has to do with how my catcher is playing. We have a great connection and I trust all the calls she makes."
PHU sophomore Claire Hamilton has emerged as an efficient catcher in helping the Hurricanes (12-3) build a six-game winning streak.
With Sabol and Hamilton keeping the Seminole bats at bay, Jess Adams was instrumental at the plate in both of the Hurricanes' runs.
In the fourth inning, Adams doubled to deep rightfield off Seminole sophomore right-hander Jennie Sittloh with one out then scored when Anna Stamas dropped a single just beyond the right side of the infield.
In the sixth inning Vanessa Fernandez led off with a single, moved to third on a single by Adams then scored on a sacrifice fly to center by Mariah Connolly.