West Point erupted early, plating three runs in the first inning and adding another three in the second before pulling away with five more in the fifth to secure an 11‑1 win over Back Mountain in the first round of the 9‑10‑11 baseball state tournament.
A Manager’s Assessment
Back Mountain manager Jerry Brodginski pointed to a series of defensive lapses and lingering nerves as the root of his team’s early exit, noting that the squad will have to win each of its remaining games to stay alive in the tournament.
The victory also marked the only run of the game for Back Mountain, scored by Monroe Hornak in the bottom of the fourth, while the rest of the lineup was held hitless, reaching base only via a walk and two errors.
Looking Ahead
Back Mountain is slated to face Southern Lehigh next, while the tournament field also includes DuBois, Hollidaysburg, Glenmore Eagle and Council Rock Newtown Area, each vying for a spot in the later rounds. The win underscores West Point’s early dominance, but the narrow margin also serves as a reminder that every subsequent game will demand the same level of focus as the elimination bracket tightens.