SPANISH FORT – A tale of two shutouts forced a third and deciding game today on The Hill at Spanish Fort. The Toros (39-7) bounced back from a 5-0 loss with an 8-0 win Friday night against Russell County's (43-7) Warriors.

Both games appeared to be headed for short-game, pitching duels, but turned into long-ball productions in the later innings.

UPDATE: Game 3 is now set for today at 5 p.m. 

A bases-loaded walk to Gunner Hendrix finally put an SF run up after RCHS held the Toros scoreless for 11 innings. Reagan Eubanks started the rally with a lead-off, stand-up double and scored the go-ahead on Hendrix’ eye. A Sac-Bunt by Myles York and an intentional walk to SF pitcher Jesse McCord set it up.

With the bases still loaded Rob Perteet then blasted a 2-out grand slam over the score board in right field for a 5-0 lead.

In the sixth inning, Matt Hall doubled in Ty Trammel and York. In the seventh SF catcher Brian Lane added a solo home run to left to make it 8-0. McCord struck out 14 and held the Warriers to three hits for the must-win win.

In the first game Jesse Nelson tossed a two-hitter for the 5-0 Russell County win. Spanish Fort starter Ethan Walker also held the Warriors to two hits until the sixth inning.

Trevor Davis, Anfernee Grier and Nelson each homered for RCHS for a 4-0 lead. The Warriors then added one in the seventh inning.