LIMA (WLIO) — Van Wert High School saw its postseason run come to an end Friday with a 3-0 loss to Perkins High School in the Division 4 regional semifinals at Steller Field on the campus of Bowling Green State University.

The Cougars, making their first Sweet 16 appearance since 2019, turned in several defensive highlights early. In the opening inning, Conner Harris induced a line drive that Easton Putman snagged before flipping to Finley Dickinson to complete a double play and keep the game scoreless.

Van Wert threatened in the third inning when Putman lined a single to left field, helping load the bases. However, the Cougars were unable to bring a run home as Perkins escaped the jam.

Another scoring opportunity came in the fourth inning with Van Wert trailing 1-0. Dickinson delivered a base hit to center field, but Brayson Davis was thrown out at the plate, preserving the Pirates' lead.

Perkins added insurance in the sixth inning with a successful safety squeeze to extend its advantage to 3-0.

The Cougars put a runner in scoring position in the seventh inning but could not mount a comeback as Perkins closed out the victory.

Van Wert finishes its season with a 15-13 record, while the Pirates advance to the Division 4 regional final.

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