Lima, OH (WLIO) - The Lima Locos opened the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League Championship Series with a 5-2 victory over the Grand Lake Mariners on Friday night at Simmons Field.

The win gives Lima a 1-0 lead in the league's championship series, which features the GLSCL's longest-standing rivalry.

Grand Lake struck first in the top of the opening inning. Sean Krueckeberg lifted a sacrifice fly to right field, allowing Brandt Kendall to tag up from third base and score for a 1-0 Mariners lead.

The Locos answered in the bottom of the third. With a runner aboard, Cameron Greene blasted a two-run home run into the bullpen, giving Lima a 2-1 advantage.

Lima added to its lead in the fourth inning. With two runners on, Tyler Vansumeren laid down a bunt that led to a throwing error by the Mariners' catcher. After faking a throw to third, the catcher sailed the ball past first base, allowing both runners to score and extend the Locos' lead to 4-1.

Later in the inning, Grant McGuire drove in Vansumeren with a sacrifice fly to right field, capping a three-run frame and pushing the lead to 5-1.

Grand Lake added a run late, but the Locos held on for the 5-2 victory.

The championship series continues with Game 2 at Montgomery Field on Saturday. First pitch is scheduled for 5:35 p.m.

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