Both the Midway boys and girls teams were named number one in Roundup play Tuesday after the conclusion of middle school baseball action for 2009.

After what started as a fast-moving game for the boys, the Sampson Middle Dark Horse bats cooled off after W Pearson brought in the Horses’ only run in the first.

Likewise, Midway started off cold. After a three-up and three-down scenario for Sampson, Midway let loose four runs, taking the lead for the team.

“The bats weren’t really rolling,” said Midway coach Steven Tyler, “but the balls were,” he said, referring to the pitching game.

Matthew Phillips pitched the entire seven inning game for the Raiders, throwing 12 strikeouts. “Pitches are what saved us today. That’s Matthew, he’s been an ace all year. When a big game comes up he wants to throw the ball,” and he does very well, added Tyler. “I am proud of them all. They worked hard.”

On Monday, Midway pitcher Luke Clark gave up only two hits as the Raiders went on to win the game and advance to the championship round Tuesday.

Tyler added that the team was just as good in the classroom. “They are really bright boys, and they have bright futures ahead of them.”

For all but the fourth inning, the game was a defensive struggle, commented Sampson coach Allen Tyler after the game. “It was a pitchers duel.”

“We had a good year. There was some good pitching in the game; errors cost us the game. No one in particular, just errors.” he added.

Sampson was unable to provide player stats.

For Midway, said Tyler, Cody Baker, Lane Daniels and Phillips all had good games. In addition, Cameron Baggett went 1 for 3 at the plate.