Genoa Central outlasts Smackover 7-5

MAGNOLIA - Smackover's bid to erase a 7-1 deficit fell just short on Friday morning, as the Bucks fell to Genoa Central 7-5 in the consolation round of the Magnolia Tournament.

Trailing by six runs going into their final at-bat, the Bucks nearly pulled off a huge comeback.

In the fifth, Nick Jennings struck out, but reached courtesy of a wild pitch on strike three.

Beau Burson, who was 2-for-3, followed with a single to left to put runners at first and second.

A walk to Weston Smith loaded the bases, and the Bucks took advantage of a miscue by the Dragons to pull closer.

Brennan McKnight hit a comebacker to the mound that had the makings of being turned into a double play.

However, a throwing error on the play at the plate allowed a run to score to make it 7-2.

One out later, Alex Savage came off the bench and drew a pinch-hit walk to force in a run.

Tucker Evans then followed with a walk of his own to pull the Bucks within 7-4.

After Matt Impson struck out, Baylor Brumley delivered an RBI single to bring the Bucks even closer.

However, that would be as close as the Bucks would get, as Jennings was retired on a popup to the pitcher to end the game.

After falling behind 1-0, the Bucks got back on even terms in the bottom of the first.

Burson singled, stole both second and third base and scored on the front end of a double steal with McKnight.

The Bucks were held to just four hits with Nick Impson going 1-for3.

Jennings started for the Bucks, working one-plus inning.

He allowed one run, didn't allow any hits, walked four and struck out one. Evans took the loss in relief, allowing six runs (four earned) in four innings of work.

He walked three, struck out four and allowed eight hits, all of which were singles.

Smackover (5-9) returns to action on Monday when they play at Monticello.