The Kearney Bulldogs battled early in the District Final game on Saturday, May 23, but the Platte County Pirates pulled away with a big fifth inning to claim a 7-3 win.

Platte County broke the game open in the top of the fifth, first taking advantage of a passed ball that brought home a run before Brennan McLaughlin delivered the key hit of the inning with a two-run single.

Evan McDaniel got the start on the mound for Kearney and worked 6 1/3 innings, allowing four runs on nine hits while striking out two and walking three. Platte County starter Zach Brown went six innings and gave up three runs on six hits with three strikeouts and one walk.

Gabe Newton, Grant Bogert, Brock Scott, Hayden Fritter, Easton Haggart, and Caleb Fletchall each recorded a hit for the Bulldogs, while Newton, Scott, and Cade Holder each drove in a run.

Kearney also showed sharp defense throughout the game, turning two double plays and finishing error-free in the field. Newton led the Bulldogs with six defensive chances.

The loss ends a quality season for the Bulldogs. The team finished 25-11 on the season.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.