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West clinches playoff spot in District 21-5A with 4-3 win

**Magnolia West Clinches Playoff Berth with Tense 4-3 Victory Over Lake Creek**

MONTGOMERY, TX – Magnolia West secured a hard-fought 4-3 victory over district rival Lake Creek on Tuesday, April 23rd, at Lake Creek High School, a win that officially punched their ticket to the UIL state playoffs. The crucial District 21-5A baseball clash also propelled the Mustangs into sole possession of second place in the fiercely competitive district standings.

The Mustangs wasted no time asserting their presence, erupting for three runs in the top of the first inning. The bases were loaded early after James Montalvo, Jack Joslin, and Trenton Buckley each drew walks. Caden Wade then stepped up and delivered a clutch two-run single, giving Magnolia West an immediate advantage.

Lake Creek, however, proved resilient. In the bottom of the first, Connor Meichtry singled, then promptly scored on an RBI double from Peyton Miller. Miller later capitalized on a wild pitch, crossing the plate to narrow Magnolia West’s lead to a slim 3-2.

Magnolia West managed to extend their lead in the third inning. Ethan Frey walked, stole second, advanced to third on a wild pitch, and then scored on a dropped third strike, bringing the score to 4-2. But the Lions refused to back down. In the bottom half of the frame, Peyton Miller continued his productive night with an RBI single, once again trimming the deficit to a single run, 4-3.

That nail-biting 4-3 score held for the remainder of the game, largely due to strong pitching performances from both sides.

Magnolia West’s Chase Temple was the star on the mound, delivering a complete game. Temple navigated all seven innings, allowing just three runs (two earned) on five hits and two walks while striking out seven Lake Creek batters. His composure in high-pressure situations was key to preserving the Mustangs’ lead.

For Lake Creek, Hayden Lake started, pitching five innings and surrendering four runs (three earned) on five hits and five walks, while fanning six. Blake Brown provided solid relief, throwing two scoreless innings and keeping the Lions within striking distance.

“This was a huge win for us,” said Magnolia West Head Coach Jeff Williamson after the game. “Lake Creek is a fantastic team, and we knew we’d have to battle for every out. Securing a playoff spot is a testament to the hard work and dedication these guys have put in all season. We still have work to do, but this is a big step.”

The loss marked Lake Creek’s third consecutive district defeat, moving their overall record to 20-7 and their district record to 8-4. Despite the recent skid, the Lions remain a formidable force and are expected to contend for a playoff spot themselves. Magnolia West, meanwhile, improved to 18-9 overall and an impressive 10-2 in district play, positioning them alone in second place, trailing only district leader Brenham.

The two teams are set to face off again in a highly anticipated rematch on Friday, April 26th. The outcome of that game will have significant implications for both teams’ final district standings and their momentum heading into the postseason. Fans can expect another intense showdown as Lake Creek looks to avenge their loss and Magnolia West aims to solidify their playoff seeding.

For updated District 21-5A standings and upcoming schedules, visit the UIL District 21-5A athletics page or local sports news outlets.

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