Ronan builds early lead, holds off MAC

RONAN — Ronan rode a five-run second inning and steady pitching to a 7-4 win over Mission-Arlee-Charlo on Friday afternoon in high school baseball.

The Chiefs (1-4) struck first with a run in the opening inning, helping them jump out to a 6-0 lead by the third inning. 

The Bulldogs (0-4) responded in the fourth with three runs to cut into the deficit and added another later but couldn't fully erase the gap. 

Ben Mitchell drove in two runs to lead Ronan, while Everett Lozeau collected two hits and an RBI. Baylan Hess scored twice as the Chiefs worked six walks as a team. 

Mitchell started on the mound, going three innings and allowing

two earned runs while striking out three. Joseph Fulwiler took over in relief striking out eight over four innings while allowing one earned run. 

MAC finished with eight hits, with Jason Leishman and Jake Helser each recording two in the loss.