Howland tops Struthers 2-1 in 12 innings

HOWLAND -- It wasn't an expected outcome for Struthers High senior pitcher Tina Palumbo -- not after taking a no-hitter into the ninth inning, allowing just two hits through 12 innings and striking out 14 batters.
But Howland pinned a 2-1 loss on the Wildcats starter in a Metro Athletic Conference game Thursday at Howland High.
The Tigers gained the victory in the top of the 12th when Kristina Ferenac singled and went to second on Natalie Nicholas' sacrifice bunt. When Stephanie Cornicelli attempted another sacrifice bunt, Struthers (16-8, 6-4) threw the ball away and Ferenac scored the game-winner.
Holly Hickenbottom had four singles in Struthers' 10-hit attack. Katy Shurilla and Heather Hrina each added two hits.
Lena Earich got the victory in relief for Howland (7-3 MAC).
LaBrae 6, Brookfield 1: BROOKFIELD -- Kendra Needles (10-5) of LaBrae pitched a two-hitter and struck out two as the Vikings topped Brookfield in a Trumbull Athletic Conference game.
LaBrae (12-8) was backed by Jackie Sanderson, who went 3-for-3, with a double, one run scored and a stolen base.
Laura Sewell scored twice and drove in a run and stole a base. Lisa Klingensmith hit a two-run single in the fifth inning.