By Sapna Pathak
Staff Writer

Pelham first baseman Simone Fournier is tagged out at home plate by Auburn catcher Sarah Cote during the locals’ 5-4 win on July 13. (Hooksett Banner/Bruce Preston)

On Tuesday, July 18, the girls of Auburn softball watched as two teams ­ Lamprey River and Pelham ­ faced off, knowing they’d have to go through the winner of that game to take home the District One Majors state softball championship.

Their 12-2 stomping of Lamprey River on Saturday, July 15, gave Auburn’s all-stars a four-day break to prepare for the big game.

By the way, they’ll spend those four days knowing they also beat Pelham, 5-4, on July 13.

“Yes and no, it’s an advantage having beaten both teams already,” said Auburn head coach Rich Pelletier. “We beat Lamprey River by 10 runs, but any given day things can change. If a pitcher’s on, it’s a done deal. If she’s off, it’s a walk-fest.”

With just 10 girls on the roster, Pelletier said the team’s chemistry has grown during the tournament. Pelletier and his coaching staff toughened practices for the all-stars.

Pelletier said he reminded the girls “the way to win is manufacturing runs.”

While Auburn must win Thursday’s game to take home the title, it’s not a do-or-die situation. A loss means Auburn gets another crack at the crown on Saturday, July 22.

Of the two, Pelletier said he’d rather face Lamprey River.

Down four runs to Pelham, center fielder Heather Pelletier made a running catch before throwing to first base to complete the double play that changed the game.

Led by pitchers Amber Craghead and Melanie Dussealt, Auburn’s defense clamped down. Then the offense perked up, scoring twice in the third and three times in the fifth inning.

Third baseman Kayla Komaridis and Kelsea Kehoe are the team’s only 11-year-olds and help anchor the offense.

Having a strong defense behind his pitchers, said Pelletier, has helped the entire team relax during games.

“We know where to put the ball on defense,” said Pelletier. “On offense, they know they don’t have to hit doubles. A walk is the same as long as you get on base.”