Boardman, OH -- West Branch got off to a late start Saturday, with first pitch pushed back to 5 p.m. after Boardman dealt with a scheduling conflict earlier in the day. When it was all said and done, the Warriors made things interesting but couldn't finish the job, falling 7-5 in a game that felt like it was slipping away before West Branch decided to make a run at it.

Boardman jumped out to a 3-1 lead after the first inning and extended the advantage to 5-1 through three, putting the Warriors in an early hole. With a four-run deficit staring them down, West Branch went to work. The Warriors chipped away with a steal of home, a double, and another double to close the gap and make things uncomfortable for the Spartans down the stretch. Unfortunately, the comeback fell just short, and the final score read 7-5.

Sara Schmidt got things started early with an RBI single in the first inning, and the Warriors finished with 10 hits on the day. Carly Loper was West Branch's offensive standout, going 2-for-4 with two RBI out of the middle of the lineup. Schmidt also went 2-for-4 on the afternoon.

Ellie Tucker went six innings in the circle, striking out five and walking two. West Branch battled to the end but couldn't get over the hump.

What's Next

West Branch is back in action Monday when they travel to Hubbard. First pitch is set for 5.pm.