SOFTBALL: Herrin ends DMS' season
</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[ After a fantastic 14-3 start to their regular season, Du Quoin Middle School softball's playoff run ended before it got a chance to take off.
The Lady Warriors dropped Wednesday's regional opener against Herrin 10-8 at West Frankfort, committing eight defensive errors that led to all but 3 of Herrin's runs.
"The fifth inning was our doom, we had six errors in the fifth that led to 5 unearned runs," said Lady Warriors head coach Jason James.
"I'm very happy with the girls and how they didn't quit and battled back in the sixth."
After Herrin had nabbed a 9-3 lead, the Lady Indians battled back for a five spot in the top of the sixth, but fell short in the end.
Abby Doerr had a huge day at the plate for DMS, cranking two home runs and driving in four. Carissa Graham had a hit and an RBI for the Lady Warriors, Amanda Atteberry also hit safely and scored three times in the game.
Marissa Ferguson completed her season at 14-6 in the pitcher's circle, allowing only two earned runs on five hits while striking out three Herrin batters in five innings.
Kat Robison finished up pitching duty in the sixth and seventh, allowing one run on one hit.
"I am very happy with the season that we had," said James. "I am very proud of the girls and their accomplishments. They are a wonderful group of young ladies that worked very hard for me all year."
With the victory, Herrin advances to Monday's championship against either West Frankfort or Johnston City.
DMS baseball takes their crack at regional play today at 3:00 p .m. as they face West Frankfort at Herrin.