Beloit, OH -- The West Branch Lady Warriors are one win away from a district title. Powered by a three-run fourth inning and dominant relief pitching, West Branch defeated Ravenna 5-1 yesterday to advance to the district championship game.

Ravenna struck first in the top of the third when Mallory Sterba drove in a run on a fielder's choice. However, the Lady Warriors wasted no time responding, as Libbie Davis bounced back with a clutch RBI single down the right field line in the bottom half, knotting the score at 1-1.

The game remained tight until the fourth inning when Addi Craven demolished a no-doubt solo home run to left field, finally giving West Branch their first lead. Coach Tucker's team managed to build on the momentum as Camryn Wike laced an RBI double to center field, scoring Kylie Simmons who had entered as a courtesy runner. Carly Loper then delivered an RBI single to center, pushing West Branch's lead to 4-1.

Despite the score, Ravenna continued to threaten, forcing West Branch to execute defensively. More insurance was added in the sixth when Z. Metzger grounded out to shortstop, allowing Craven to score from third. Craven finished with two hits and two stolen bases, providing the offensive spark West Branch needed against the upset-minded Ravens.

West Branch's two headed pitching tandem rose to the challenge when tested. Starter Ellie Tucker fanned seven Ravenna batters through 3.1 innings, surrendering just one unearned run. Klary McKay was even more dominant in relief, entering in the fourth inning and striking out seven while not allowing a single hit over 3.2 pressure-packed innings. The Ravens had no answer for either pitcher, managing just one ball out of the infield after McKay took the circle.

What's Next: With the win, West Branch improves to 19-7 on the season and will play for a district championship Thursday at Massillon Washington High School against fourth-seeded Mogadore Field. First pitch is scheduled for 5:00 PM.