Fairfield and Lakota West both moved closer to a berth in the Ohio Division I state fast-pitch Final Four by winning regional semifinal contests yesterday.

The Indians (23-4) defeated Vandalia Butler 5-2 at the University of Dayton while Lakota West (27-3) took care of Westerville South 4-0 at Ohio State University.

Fairfield scored three runs in the bottom of the third inning and rode the arm of pitcher Mindy Breitholle, who struck out 11 batters and scattered six hits.  The Indians will meet the winner of Hamilton-Lakota East, setting up an all-Greater Miami Conference regional final on Saturday.

Lakota West, ranked No. 3 in the state, broke open a scoreless tie with four runs in the top of the sixth inning to beat the Wildcats, who entered the game ranked No. 2.  Senior pitcher Lindsey Bodeker struck out 11 batters and gave up just two hits as the Firebirds have still yet to yield a run in tournament play.