MINSTER, Ohio (WLIO) — The defending Division VII state champion Minster Wildcats opened their season with a 5-1 victory over Russia in a rematch of last year’s state semifinal.

Russia struck first in the top of the opening inning, taking advantage of an errant throw to bring Maddox Goubeaux home for a 1-0 lead.

Minster quickly responded in the bottom half of the inning. Carson Kaylor reached safely on a hard-hit ball to shortstop, allowing Ty Hein to score and tie the game at 1.

The Wildcats continued to build momentum as Jace Hemmelgarn delivered an RBI single to left field, bringing Reese Beair home.

Kaylor later scored on the play, capping a three-run inning and giving Minster a 3-1 advantage.

On the mound, senior Dominick Meyer set the tone for the Wildcats. He pitched six strong innings, allowing just four hits and one run while recording multiple strikeouts.

Minster added to its lead in the fifth inning when Beair hit an RBI triple to right-center field, scoring James Kuehner.

The Wildcats sealed the season-opening win behind strong pitching and timely hitting, defeating Russia 5-1.

Tags