Opening Victory
The Bunn Wildcats seized the first game of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association Class 4A state championship series on Tuesday night, defeating the Burns Bulldogs 3-2 in Holly Springs. The victory sets the stage for a highly anticipated rematch on Thursday, when the two squads will battle for the coveted state title.
Bunn’s offense struck early, but it was a defensive gem that turned the tide. In the fourth inning, with the score knotted at 2-2, Caleb Johnson, a Mount Olive recruit, sprinted across center field and made a diving catch that robbed Burns of a potential go‑ahead hit. The play not only preserved Bunn’s lead but also sparked a rally that culminated in a wild pitch, allowing the Wildcats to pull ahead.
Veteran pitcher Dylan Mitchell delivered a steady performance on the mound, while sophomore Lathan Peeler contributed a timely single that helped extend the Wildcats’ advantage. Jackson Alford, another key contributor, kept the pressure on Burns with a clutch RBI that capped the fourth‑inning surge.
Coach Johnson praised the team’s resilience, noting that the wild pitch and Johnson’s defensive play were the defining moments. “We stayed focused, trusted each other, and executed when it mattered most,” he said, adding that the upcoming Thursday showdown will require the same intensity.
Rematch on the Horizon
Both teams left the field with a clear understanding of what’s at stake. Burns will look to adjust after a narrow loss, while Bunn aims to carry the momentum into the final game. Fans on both sides are expected to pack the stadium as the series shifts to a winner‑takes‑all finale.