BRIDGEPORT - Steubenville Catholic Central senior Jimmy Panella threw a five-inning perfect game during Saturday's 10-0 win over Beallsville as the Ohio Division IV Eastern District sectional tournament started.
Panella struck out eight as the Crusaders cruised to another win.
"He worked ahead all day," said Central coach Donnie Young. "His fastball was strong and he had a good chaneg-up. He was throwing hard and pounded the strike zone. He also kept his pitch count down."
Panella helped his cause with a double and three RBIs.
Brenton Colabella added two singles, a triple and two RBIs and David Bertoia a single and RBI.
"We thought we pitched and played defense really well," said Young. "We were a little sluggish at plate. It's good to get our feet wet in the tournament and get started."
Catholic Central is back in action at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday on the same diamond against the winner of Monday's game between Shadyside and River.
"We have played both teams and we will have to play better than today to beat either one of them," said the coach.
Steubenville Central 10, Beallsville 0
Beallsville 000 00 - 0 0 3
Steubenville Central 302 5x - 10 9 0
BEALLSVILLE: Nippert (LP) and Dietrich.
CATHOLIC CENTRAL: Panella (WP, 8K, 0BB) and and Laukert; Colabella 2S, T, 2rbi; Panella D, 3rbi; Bertoia S, rbi.
