Top-ranked Lockport and third-ranked Morris have each enjoyed storybook seasons, playing at a level befitting a champion.
But only one of these teams will escape the Class AA Lincoln-Way regional as the top two seeds will square off in Tuesday`s 4 p.m. title game.
Morris (30-4) advanced with a 5-2 victory Monday over Providence, while Lockport (32-1) shut out Joliet Catholic 7-0.
In Lockport`s win, junior Amber Podlesny (20-1) notched her 15th shutout of the season, allowing only a first-inning single while striking out 16.
Offensively, the Porters pounded out nine hits, with Shannon Goddard, Jenny Sankey and Tina Erickson all delivering RBI singles in a five-run second inning. Tracy Hocutt went 3 for 4 and scored two runs.
”The kids` main worry is playing their best,” said Lockport coach Barb Burk. ”They can`t think about their ranking. They stay focused on the game at hand.”
In Morris` win, Joy Battersby moved her record to 11-0 with a five-hitter and eight strikeouts. Erin Hickey (3 for 3, RBI) and Jen Siron (two RBIs) led the offense.
Lockport and Morris split an April 3 double-header, with Morris winning the second game in eight innings.
