Allie Park got exactly what she wanted Monday night. The Lady Pats picked up a pair of wins over Lee-Scott Academy and earned a spot in the AISA State Tournament, held next week at Lagoon Park in Montgomery.

Pike downed the Lady Warriors 8-2 and 8-7 to earn the spot in the state tournament.

“We hit really well overall Monday,” said Park. “The first game went really smooth, but the second game wasn’t as good. We got a little tired and Lee-Scott put some pressure on us to make some plays and we made a couple of errors. We were able to come back and get the W, and that is what matters.”

During a playoff push, coaches will usually turn to seniors, or veteran players, to lead the team. Park did just that Monday night, and Ellie Barron answered the call.

Barron went 3-for-4 with an RBI in game one, and was a perfect 4-for-4 with three RBIs in the much closer second game.

In the circle, Barron pitched a total of 11 innings over the two games. She struck out 13 in game one, and picked up seven more Ks in the nightcap.

“She hit and pitched really, really well Monday,” said Park. “We rotated her and Kailee Taylor between the circle and center field to keep the other team off balance and it worked well. Ellie did an awesome job for us the other night, and I think she will keep doing so.”

Before heading to the state tournament next week, Pike will get a taste of what to expect on Thursday. The Lady Pats will take part in the seeding tournament at Lagoon Park.

Pike will meet Glenwood in the first game, and, depending on the outcome; will face either Macon-East Montgomery or Springwood in the second game of the day.

“I think it will help us for next week,” said Park. “The same teams we will see on Thursday will be at the state tournament. It also gives the girls a chance to play on the same fields. It will definitely help us all around.”

Pike and Glenwood are set for a 1 p.m. first pitch on Thursday at Lagoon Park in Montgomery.