Neligh Juniors, Seniors Split Series With Atkinson

In an offensive-heavy night on the diamond, Neligh and Atkinson battled back and forth to a split on Monday night.

The night started off well for Neligh, with the Juniors pulling out a 15-10 victory. Things got off to a quick start for Neligh as they scored seven of their 15 runs in the first inning alone. Benefitting from a walk and two hit batters, Neligh was able to jump out to a big lead with three two-RBI singles, one from Hunter Reestman, one from Austin Rice and one from Andrew Herley

Meanwhile, Jayden Arehart and the Junior pitching staff were able to hold Atkinson at bay long enough to secure the lead. Atkinson was held scoreless until the third inning. In that third inning, they exploded for six runs, but by that time Neligh had a 9-6 lead in their pocket. Both teams scored often in the fourth, combining for 10 runs, but Neligh was able to hold on as the game came to an early end due to time restraints.

In the night cap, the Seniors weren't able to pull out the same result as they fell 10-7. Unlike game one, game two started out as a defensive battle, with neither team able to crack the scoreboard until the third inning. That's when Atkinson plated the first four runs of the game to jump out to a strong lead. They added two more runs in the top of the fourth before Tyson Zegers was able to give Neligh their first run of the game in the bottom of the frame. They went on to add four more runs in the fourth to bring the game to 6-5, Atkinson.

Unfortunately, Neligh was unable to overtake the Atkinson Seniors. Each team added a run in the fifth with Neligh eventually tying it up in the sixth. However, a three-run seventh inning gave Atkinson the win. 

Luke Jacobsen and crew started strong on the mound, striking out two and allowing just three hits before Atkinson cracked the code in the third.