NIAGARA, Wis. — A six-run sixth inning for St. Thomas Aquinas/Lena put the game out of reach for the host Niagara Badgers as STAA/Lena came away with a 11-2 win in the opening game of the season for both teams.

“Overall, I was pleased with how we played today. We knew we were going to struggle this year,” said Niagara head coach Dean Neveau. “Throughout the season, we’ll be building for the end of the season, to be competitive in the postseason.”

Ethan Russell, Logan Shallow and Lane Whiting towed the mound for STAA/Lena. The trio combined to fan 13 Badgers, while allowing only three hits, and walking four.

Both teams got on the scoreboard in the first inning of the Marinette-Oconto Conference game, with the visitors holding a 2-1 lead.

“STAA/Lena has three great pitchers. They’re a solid team, I believe this might be the first time we have lost to them since I have been our coach,” Neveau said.

The Badgers had five different players pitch on the afternoon, giving up 14 walks, and allowing six hits. Senior Dawson Lincoln scored Niagara’s two runs.

“We’re a young team, we have no returning pitchers from two seasons ago,,” Neveau added. The 2020 season was wiped out by the pandemic.

Niagara (0-1) returns to action on Thursday, as they travel to Wausaukee for M&O Conference action. On Friday, Niagara travels to rival Florence for a non-conference game.

Box Score R/H/E

STAA/Lena 2 0 2 0 0 6 1 — 11/6/0

Niagara 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 — 2/3/4