COVINGTON – Earlier in the season Covington was rune-ruled by Miami East, but Tuesday the Buccaneers played very well even though they lost to the Vikings 6-4.

Miami East opened the scoring in the first after Atley Zerkle hit into a double play, but one run scored. Fortunately, the Buccaneers jumped back into the lead in the bottom of the first inning after Brairen Denson doubled to center field, Caiden Hollingsworth doubled down the left field line, Finn Rogers walked, and Christian Skaggs singled down the left field line, each scoring one run to take a 4-1 lead.

Neither team was able to score throughout the next two innings, but Miami East was able to put another run on the board in the top of the fourth and then took a 5-4 lead with three runs in the top of the fifth. The Vikings captured the lead in the top of the fifth when Lilly scored after tagging up, and Keiden Pratt tripled, scoring two runs.

The Vikings then closed out the game with one more run in the top of the sixth.

KJ Gustin earned the win for Miami East on the hill as he only gave up six hits and four runs over five innings, striking out four and walking four. Hunter McMillion took the loss for Covington, but he pitched very well throughout seven innings. He give up six runs (four earned) on six hits, striking out six and walking three.

Colton Goins, Christian Skaggs, Hunter McMillion, Brairen Denson, Caiden Hollingsworth, and Talon Pergram each collected one hit for Covington. Christian Skaggs, Brairen Denson, and Caiden Hollingsworth each drove in one run for the Buccs and the defense turned one double play in the game.

Keiden Pratt went 3-for-3 at the plate and led the team with three runs batted in. Miami East turned one double play in the game.

Covington, who is now 5-10 overall and 4-6 in the TRC, will travel to Troy Christian for their next game on Thursday.