ELIDA, Ohio — Allen East moved one step closer to a spot in the ACME state finals on Monday night, defeating Van Wert 6-2 at Ed Sandy Field in the District 5 loser’s bracket semifinal.

The Mustangs opened the scoring early, with Jackson Thompson driving a deep shot to left field in the first inning. The double plated Travis Stanley and keyed a two-run start for Allen East.

Van Wert responded in the second. Jace Huebner grounded out with the bases loaded, bringing Wyatt Scott home to cut the deficit to 2-1.

Allen East added another run in the third, but the Cougars quickly answered. Connor Harris sent a line drive into center field, scoring Trevor Halker and trimming the Mustang lead to 3-2.

That was as close as Van Wert would get. Allen East starter Caleb Lybarger silenced the Cougars’ bats from there, striking out nine and ending a potential rally in the third.

The Mustangs tacked on three more late and held on for the 6-2 win. They’ll face Liberty-Benton on Wednesday at Elida in the District 5 loser’s bracket final.

Tags