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Courson's blast lifts Falcons past Moniteau

To win a game with a base hit is one thing.

Shawn Courson now knows how it feels to win one with a home run.

The A-C Valley first baseman's three-run homer capped a six-run seventh inning and gave the Falcons a 12-9 win over Moniteau (9-6) Thursday afternoon in Emlenton.

"Shawn's been a streaky hitter this season, and he'd admit to that," said A-C Valley coach Jamie Hillwig. "But lately, he's gotten his bat under control."

Moniteau led 4-0 after the first half inning and 9-3 entering the bottom of the fourth frame.

The Falcons' Jesse Mangel picked up the win with nine strikeouts while Andy Smith and John Kaufman each collected three hits to lead A-C Valley's 15-hit attack.

The win avenges Moniteau's 10-0, six inning win over the Falcons April 22.

"That was one of only two times this season we were mercy-ruled, so it was nice to come back and get a win against (Moniteau)" said Hillwig.

It is the Falcons' second win this year (2-11).

"I'd hate to call this season a disappointment," Hillwig said. "We didn't win a game last season and the kids have played well beyond expectations."

Moniteau 402 300 0 - 9 12 0

A-C Valley 012 120 6 -12 15 1

WP:

Jesse Mangel (7 IP) 9 strikeouts, 3 walks.

LP:

Cruz Eshenbaugh (3 IP) 4 strikeouts, 0 walks

Moniteau (9-6):

Cruz Eshenbaugh 2-1B RBI R, Pisor 2-1B HR 2RBI 2R SB, Morrow 1B 2B 2RBI SB, Howland HR RBI 2R

A-C Valley (2-11):

Ryan Austin 1B 2B R, Jesse Mangel 1B 2B RBI 2R, John Stumpner 2-1B RBI R, Shawn Courson 1B HR 4RBI R, Andy Smith 1B 2B 3B 2RBI 3R, John Kaufman 3-1B RBI 2R

Monday:

Redbank Valley @ A-C Valley

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