Picayune has one week left before the Lady Tide begins district play in prep slow pitch softball.

And even though Picayune stands just 7-5 overall after Tuesday night’s 10-1 loss to Greene County, veteran Lady Tide head coach feels like her team is on the right track to defend their league title.

“Right now, we are just struggling to get the big hit when we need it,” Mitchell said. “But we have seven starters back from last year, and they know how to win. I feel like we have a really good chance to repet as district champs.”

Picayune is off until Tuesday, when the Lady Tide hosts arch-rival Poplarville in the second game of a home and home series. Picayune beat the Lady Hornets several weeks ago to kick the season off.

“Playing Poplarville should be a good game to get us ready for district play,” Mitchell added. “Hopefully, win or lose, we will play well and we can carry that over to the next game.”

And that next game will be one week from tonight, when Picayune travels to Long Beach to open the league slate.

The region consists of Picayune, Long Beach, West Harrison and D’Iberville. The top two teams will qualify for the Class 5A South State playoffs.

“With only four teams in our district, you can’t afford to overlook anyone at any time,” Mitchell said. “Every game counts, and you don’t want to get off to a slow start either.”

In the loss to Greene County, Tiffany Devore had three hits including a double and scored Picayune’s only run.

Sara Dodd took the loss.