By: Elliot Schneider
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
PIONEER (May 21, 2026) – In a tightly contested, low-scoring battle, North Central leaned on strong defense and timely execution to defeat league rival Pettisville 3-1 in the Division VII sectional final.
Offense was at a premium throughout, as the two teams combined for just five hits. North Central ultimately made the difference by capitalizing on key Pettisville defensive errors.
The first four innings were dominated by pitching and defense. Pettisville’s best early opportunity came in the top of the fourth when they drew two walks but were unable to bring a run across.
The Blackbirds broke through in the fifth. Ryan Bishop led off the inning with a walk and advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt by Luke Horning. Aiden Crawford followed with an RBI single to right, giving Pettisville a 1-0 lead.
North Central answered in the bottom half of the inning, taking advantage of a defensive miscue. Easton Fidler reached on an error and moved to second on a bunt from Brody Taylor.
After a pinch runner, Aiden Meyers, took over, Garrett Shockley delivered an RBI single to tie the game at 1-1.
The Eagles took control in the sixth, again fueled by Pettisville errors. Jackson Poynter reached on an error to open the inning, and Alex St. John later drew a walk.
After both runners moved into scoring position on stolen bases, Logan Clark put the ball in play, and an errant throw allowed Poynter to score the go-ahead run.
Fidler followed with another RBI single, bringing home St. John and extending the lead to 3-1.
With their season on the line, Pettisville was unable to respond in the seventh. Poynter shut the door in dominant fashion, striking out the side to secure the sectional title for North Central.
PHS 000 010 0 – 1 2 6
NCHS 000 012 x – 3 3 0
WP- Jackson Poynter (IP-7, R-1, H-2, K-8, BB-4)
LP- Luke Horning (IP-6, R-3, H-3, K-3, BB-1)
LEADING HITTERS: (Pettisville) Aiden Crawford – single, RBI; (North Central) Easton Fidler – single, RBI; Garrett Shockley – single, RBI.