SHINGLEHOUSE — A late-game comeback was required, but Smethport proved up to the challenge.

Oswayo Valley’s six-run 4th inning gave it a lead, but the Hubbers responded with a nine-run 6th, turning a deficit into a comfortable lead. Alex Ognen closed the door on OV in the top of the 7th, completing a 15-6 Smethport win in Northern Allegheny League baseball action.

“We really answered back and showed a lot about our character,” Smethport coach Colby Austin said. “They were determined and ready to go, and once they found a groove they were rolling.”

Trailing by three runs, OV’s offense came alive in the fourth, as an RBI double by Alec Harmon sparked a rally. Three consecutive walks kept the Green Wave in business before Ian Bilski ripped a two-run double.

After a mostly-quiet offensive output through five innings, the Hubbers finally responded in the 6th, as Noah Lent, Ognen and Travis Cooney each drove in runs. Friday’s star, however, was Brandon Higley, who went 4-for-4 with a walk at the plate, driving in six runs and scoring two of his own along the way.

“(Higley) had a great night at the plate,” Austin said. “Any win is a good win for us, and we were very proud of them, this being the first time we’ve been on the field in awhile. It was our first time seeing live pitching in awhile, too, so a great effort considering.”

Ognen struck out 10 batters in 3.2 innings of relief, allowing just two hits while not surrendering a walk.

AT SHINGLEHOUSE R H E

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OV:

SOFTBALL

Oswayo Valley, Smethport 6

SHINGLEHOUSE — In a back-and-forth battle between Northern Allegheny League rivals, Oswayo Valley’s two runs in the bottom of the 6th inning powered the Lady Green Wave over Smethport.

The Lady Hubbers loaded the bases in the top of the 7th but couldn’t bring the score level, dropping to 0-2 on the season.

“The girls got a little taste of what it’s going to take to be competitive,” Smethport coach Jon Peterson said. “OV is a good fundamental team and they stepped up in some big hitting situations.”

Makenzie Mesler got the win in the pitcher’s circle for OV, striking out seven batters. Mackenzie George homered for OV, while Smethport pitcher Tylar Colley struck out two in the circle.