The rivalry between the Houston County Bears and the Veterans Warhawks continued Tuesday night as the teams met for Part 1 of the “Battle of Highway 96.” Houston County came away with a strong 7–3 region victory, remaining undefeated in region play.
Houston County wasted little time getting on the board. In the bottom of the first inning, the Bears plated two early runs to take control of the game. Their offense continued to produce in the second inning when Davian Hammonds delivered the highlight of the night. On a full count, Hammonds launched a home run to left field, extending Houston County’s lead to 3–0.
The Bears created more separation in the bottom of the fourth inning. Houston County scored four additional runs, blowing the game open and building a 7–1 advantage.
Veterans attempted a late comeback in the top of the seventh inning. The Warhawks managed to score two runs, trimming the deficit to four, but Houston County held firm to secure the 7–3 victory. Bears’ starting pitcher Tyson Ganas pitched six innings. Striking out five, while walking one, allowing one earned run on five hits.
With the win, Houston County improves to 11–2 overall and 4–0 in region play, continuing their strong start to the season. The win also gave HoCo head coach Matt Hopkins his 200th career win (all with the Black, Silver, and White). Hopkins became the head coach of the Bears in 2019.
The rivalry isn’t over yet. The Bears and Warhawks will meet again for Part 2 of the Battle of Highway 96 when Veterans hosts Houston County in a doubleheader on Friday, March 13.
