PHOTO CREDIT: TYLER SUMMERS

BRANCH COMES UP SHORT AGAINST ALLIANCE

BELOIT, OH- On a tightly contested Tuesday, the Alliance Varsity Aviators edged out the West Branch Warriors with a slim 3-2 victory, thanks to some timely hits and solid pitching.

The game kicked off with both teams showcasing strong performances on the mound, but it was Alliance’s knack for clutch hitting that eventually made the difference. The scoring opened in the third inning when Brady White of the Aviators managed to single home a run, putting the first score on the board.

West Branch wasn’t down for long, though. Jaxon Robb responded with a crucial single on a full count in the fourth inning, pulling the game back to a tie. The Warriors then briefly took the lead in the fifth, courtesy of Anthony Perry’s double, making it a tight 2-1 game.

However, the Aviators weren’t finished. They came back strong with a pivotal double in the sixth inning to regain and solidify their lead.

On the pitching front, DiAngelo Fisk was key for Alliance, throwing three strong innings of relief where he allowed just one hit and no runs, striking out two. His effort clinched the win for the Aviators. Beau Alazaus, despite a strong outing for West Branch where he notched seven innings and struck out five, unfortunately took the loss.

At the plate, Anthony Perry and Jaxon Robb each put up a solid fight for West Branch with two hits and an RBI apiece, with Perry also snagging a couple of stolen bases. For Alliance, Ryan Bruni was the standout, going 2-for-3 and leading his team in both hits and defensive chances, with no errors on the day.

Lincoln Reese also made significant contributions for Alliance, driving in two runs with a crucial hit that contributed heavily to their victory.

Both teams showed great defense, with West Branch turning a double play in the game, but it was Alliance’s day to shine.

As they gear up for a rematch on Wednesday, with West Branch traveling to face the Aviators again, the Warriors will be looking to turn the tables and even the score.