HOT SPRINGS, Ark. — The Ecclesia College Royals battled through a tough three-game series against Champion Christian College this weekend, ultimately finishing the set with a statement victory to salvage the finale.
Champion Christian took the first two games of the series in closely contested fashion before the Royals responded with a dominant performance in the finale, earning a 10-0 shutout victory on Saturday.
Game 1: Champion Christian 4, Ecclesia 3
The series opener was a tight back-and-forth contest that came down to the final innings. Ecclesia struck for three runs in the third inning to grab an early lead behind RBI hits from Gabe Reed, Clay Fisher, and Chayse Dutile.
Champion Christian slowly chipped away, scoring single runs in the second, third, fourth, and sixth innings to pull ahead. Despite a strong outing from Drew Elmore, who pitched six innings and struck out four without issuing a walk, the Royals came up just short in a 4-3 loss.
Game 2: Champion Christian 9, Ecclesia 0
The Tigers carried their momentum into the second game of the series, capitalizing on early opportunities to take control.
Champion Christian plated one run in the second inning before erupting for five runs in the third to create separation. The Royals were unable to generate offense against Champion Christian starter Parker Hamilton, who threw all seven innings for Champion..
Hank Ramsey took the loss for Ecclesia while Blaine Dunstan provided relief out of the bullpen.
Game 3: Ecclesia 10, Champion Christian 0
Facing a potential sweep, the Royals responded in emphatic fashion in the series finale.
Ecclesia wasted no time taking control, scoring five runs in the first inning and adding three more in the second to build an early 8-0 advantage. The Royals finished the day with 12 hits and three home runs.
Keenan Hunter delivered a standout performance, going 2-for-4 with a home run, three RBIs, and three runs scored. David Marmol also homered and drove in three runs, while Tucker Bradley added a home run of his own.
On the mound, Josh Hinds turned in a strong start, tossing six scoreless innings to earn the win. Damion Bridgeman closed the door with a scoreless seventh inning to complete the shutout.
Champion Christian threatened several times during the game, but Ecclesia pitching worked out of jams and stranded 17 runners to preserve the victory.
Looking Ahead
Despite dropping the first two games of the series, the Royals showed resilience in the finale with one of their most complete performances of the season. The decisive win gives Ecclesia momentum as they continue conference play and look to build toward the postseason.
The Royals now turn their attention to NAIA Southwestern Christian in a road doubleheader on Tuesday in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.
