Softball teams from the towns of Carthage and Robbins took to the field in a showdown dubbed “The Battle in the North” on Friday evening. Though the match was long-awaited by players and fans alike, Friday night’s duel served as more than just a game—it was a community fundraiser focused on raising money for new, inclusive ADA-compliant playground equipment for Robbins, supported by a prior $42,000 donation from the Ellie Jean Project.
The game opened with a display of aerial pyrotechnics as paratroopers landed on the field during the singing of the national anthem, bringing with them colorful smoke grenades and a banner bearing the American flag.
Needless to say, the game of town employees was off to a strong start as the opening ceremony set the bar high.
Robbins players watch the patriotic paratroopers’ grand entrance during the national anthem.
The fun was led by Carthage Mayor Jimmy Chalflinch, who served as the game’s announcer, commentator, and professional heckler.
“He didn’t even get to hit nothin’!” jeered the mayor after one Carthage batter struck out, and cries of, “What kind of a pitch was that?” at other times.
Even the audience wasn’t safe from the mayor. “Don’t argue with the umpire—he knows what he’s doing!” he admonished the crowd over the microphone.
In response, enthusiastic Robbins fans resorted to air horns, earning pointed looks from the Carthage mayor.
The game itself was intense and well-played by both teams. Robbins led 11-6 early on, but Carthage fought back, closing in at 16-13 just as a dramatic blanket of fog began to roll in over the field as the game neared its final inning.
It was then that Mayor Chalflinch took to the field himself, declaring, “Well someone has to do it!”
He then proceeded to continue his heckling from on-field and took a swing for the game’s final play.
Robbins emerged victorious, outpacing Carthage 18-13 by the game’s end and taking home the trophy.
After the game, both towns took to social media to thank the community for its support and donations. “Congratulations to the Town of Robbins for winning the Battle in the North softball duel! We loved bringing our two communities together for a great cause,” posted the Town of Carthage.
Robbins, in turn, shared their gratitude: “Thank you to ‘that town down the road’ for a great event! So many thanks to all the supporters, sponsors, and fans. We’re looking forward to another event in the Plank Road Rivalry!”
Feature photo: Both teams pose with Ellie Jean.
~Article and photos by Sandhills Sentinel Assistant Editor Abegail Murphy.
