By Robert Hudson

The Selma Times-Journal

The Oxford All-Stars were down early, but they weren’t out as they surged back for a 12-2 win over Thomasville at Bloch Park, eliminating them from tournament play.

The win sends Oxford to the next round in the loser’s bracket of the 17-18-19 year old Dixie Majors state tournament.

Oxford head coach Gary Mason said the key to victory was taking advantage of scoring opportunities.

“Hitting the ball when we had runners in scoring position was the key today,” said Mason.

After going down 2-0 after the first inning and a half, Oxford would get on the board with a little help as Thomasville walked in a runner with bases loaded.

That sparked Oxford to five more runs in the bottom of the second and, after being held scoreless in the first, they would go on to score at least once in each inning with Gary Mason, Jr. hitting a home run in the fourth inning.

“Gary Mason, Jr. hit a home run when we needed him to come around,” said Mason. “I’m proud of him, but I’m also proud of the team for putting the ball in play today.”

Oxford will face Morgan County at 11:30 a.m. in an elimination game.