Opp will face a familiar foe in the first round of the AHSAA Class 3A state playoffs when the Bobcats showdown with Bayside Academy Friday night in Daphne.

 

This is third time in three years that the two teams have squared off in round one, and last year’s contest pitted the third-ranked Bobcats against the second-ranked Admirals.

 

“We have seen them the past two years, and three out of the past five years,” Bobcats’ head coach Mike Cassady said. “It winds up this way nearly every year, and a good team goes home in the first round. Either team would be able to go deep into the playoffs, but unfortunately the winner moves on and a good team is sent home early.”

 

The Bobcats have swept the previous two series, but aren’t looking past the Admirals.

 

“They are a very sound baseball team,” Cassady said. “They are always going to make the routine plays, and they don’t give away any runs. We will have to beat them, because they aren’t the type of team that will beat themselves.”

 

Cassady said that the Bobcats would go up against some good pitching in the series.

 

“They have three guys who are very good pitchers,” Cassady said. “Their coach does a great job with pitching and fielding. Their pitchers aren’t just throwing the ball, they are actually pitching. We will have to make all the routine plays, and catch some breaks along the way. But at this point, everyone is in the playoffs for a reason, and that’s what it takes to win. The team who executes, and catches a break will come out on top.”

 

The Bobcats will be relying on Eli Johnson, Walker Messer, Gunter Wise and Britt Buckelew to step up as leaders of the team, Cassady said.

 

“We have been relying on those four guys all year to carry us,” Cassady said. “Between them and other guys like Cale Pierce, how they step up and lead the team will determine how well we play as a team. We are excited about the opportunity, and we are looking forward to the challenge.”

 

Game one of the best-of-three series is set for today at 4 p.m., with game two beginning shortly following the conclusion of game one. A third game is scheduled for Saturday at noon, if necessary.