It may have been JUST one game for the White River High fastpitch team, but it was a nailbiter – a 4-3 loss to Franklin Pierce May 30.

The Hornets had their chances, but didn’t get the hitting machine cranked up until the seventh inning.

Sara Steinmetz continues her hot hitting going 3-for-4 with two RBI and Brooke Paulson was 1-for-3 and knocked in the Hornets’ other run.

Steinmetz pitched and allowed three earned runs while striking out two.

“Our defense was much improved but lady luck was not on our side,” coach Joe Sprouse said. “My girls are not dwelling on the close loss. We have learned from our mistakes and are focused on this coming week.”

That’s exactly where Sprouse wants his team focused since it will be facing the cream of the South Puget Sound League 3A crop in state caliber Enumclaw and Bonney Lake. He’s hoping the Hornets bats heat up with the weather.

“My girls are excited to play the best because they know the only way to be the best is to beat the best and they look forward to the challenge, and know the pressure is all on them, not us,” Sprouse said.

The Hornets were scheduled to face Bonney Lake Tuesday.

Results were not available at press time, but can be found at www.courierherald.com.

The Hornets face Sumner today, Wednesday, and Enumclaw Friday.

Reach Brenda Sexton at bsexton@courierherald.com or 360-802-8206.