Written by Ethan Silverman

Branson, MO: In one of the few games that didn?t get washed away by rain, No. 14 Branson earned a much needed and tough earned win against No. 5 Webb City.  Two junior pitchers who should emerge as their staff?s ace next season, Branson?s Taylor Tankersley and Webb City?s Breckin Williams squared off with Branson taking the first game of a home and home series 5 to 4.

The offensive sparks for Branson came off the bat of Daniel Batt, who had a bases loaded double in the bottom of the fourth inning, giving Branson a 4-1 lead. Paul Stevens followed with a single, scoring Batt and extending Branson?s lead to 5-1.

Tankersley went the distance on the mound for the Branson Pirates, outdueling Williams. Tankersley allowed nine hits and four earned runs, while striking out eight batters.

Nate Ervin and Derek Mann provided the offense for Webb City, with each collecting two RBIs in the losing effort. Breckin Williams threw a complete game, allowing five hits on five runs.

With the win, Branson improves to 10-3 and Webb City drops to 12-4. The No. 7 Player in the Class of 2011 Tyler Burgess will take the mound in Thursday?s contest as Webb City and Branson meet again.