LA CROSSE, WI – The Willmar Stingers lost to the La Crosse Loggers tonight, 12-9.

This marks the first time the Stingers have lost back-to-back games since the first two games of the second half.

The Stingers jumped out to a 1-0 lead after Will Hodo started off the top of the first with an RBI single. The Loggers would respond and take the lead back in the bottom of the inning with a three-run home run from the bat of Jack Haley.

Willmar would turn right around and answer with three runs of their own. Hodo drew a walk with the bases loaded and then Graysen Tarlow would hit a two-run RBI single, 4-3. Tarlow would go on to be the MinnWest Technology Campus Player of the Game. He went 2-4 with three RBIs on the night.

Although the Stingers recaptured the lead, it was in the bottom of the second where the Loggers would score six runs to go up 9-3. The Stingers would battle back in the top of the sixth evening the score at nine runs thanks to an RBI single from Drey Dirksen and a home run from Jordan Sagedahl. However, the Loggers would score three runs in the bottom of the sixth putting the game out of reach for good, 12-9.

This game marked the 100th hit for three-year Stinger Drey Dirksen. He has 91 RBIs and 16 HR during his time in Willmar as he continues to support his hometown team.

The losing pitcher was Will Roguske for the Willmar Stingers and Liam Jones was given the win.

The Stingers look to even the series tomorrow against the Loggers with the first pitch being scheduled for 6:35 p.m.