Maplesville bested its playoff run last year by qualifying for the state semifinals with two wins Friday against Fayetteville.

The Red Devils won the first game, 9-2, and the second game, 7-5.

MHS pitcher Colby Chambers was in control throughout the first game. He allowed just five hits and two walks in six innings of work while striking out seven batters.

Neither of the two runs scored by Fayetteville while Chambers was in the game was earned.

At the plate, it was Jared White doing much of the damage. White had hits in each of his four plate appearances, with a double in the last one.

White scored two runs and drove in another run.

Aron Smitherman, who closed the door on Fayetteville by pitching the seventh inning, also scored three runs and recorded two RBI in the game.

Trent Smitherman went 2-for-4 with two RBI.

Maplesville will play at St. Luke’s in the next round with a chance to advance to the state championship round on the line.