Butler made contact throughout the Group I state softball final. But the Bulldogs didn't hit the ball hard most of the time against New Egypt pitcher Jenna Rodriguez, and when they did, the strong Warriors' defense was there to make the play.

The result: a tough 1-0 loss for Butler in its first-ever softball state championship game. New Egypt pushed a run across in the first inning and made that stand up with its fine defensive play.

Butler pitcher Larissa Spellman was in charge for most of the game, striking out nine batters and allowing just two hits. The sophomore walked three batters, but one of those runners came around to score after a hit by .

Ally Spellman and Wendy Maurer had the only hits for Butler. The Bulldogs won their first sectional title and reached the Morris County final for the first time in team history. They finish the season at 27-4.

New Egypt won its fourth state title, the third in the last five years.

For sports video highlights of this New Jersey high school state tournament girls' softball final, click play in the box at left.