CLINTON, Miss. (WLBT) – Jackson Academy defeated Hartfield Academy 10-2 in Game 3 to advance to the MAIS 4A, Division 1 semifinals.

The Raiders led the series after a 6-4 victory on Tuesday but needed one more on Saturday to close out the series.

Hawks stave off elimination

Hartfield had other plans in Game 2. With their backs against the wall, the Hawks brought their best stuff.

Starter Noah Flynn dominated on the mound, waving multiple batters and tossing a no-hitter through five innings.

Gabriel Estel brought the bat for the Hawks, launching two two-run homers. Hartfield Academy handled business in Game 2, winning 5-1 to force a decisive Game 3.

Raiders respond in Game Three

Jackson Academy wasted no time in the winner-take-all matchup, opening with three runs in the first inning. Whit Davis grounded to second with a man on, but the throw to first went off the first baseman’s glove. Justin Word scored as part of the three-run frame.

The Hawks’ offense stayed hot early in Game 3. Luke Wesson sent a solo homer to left in the bottom of the first for Hartfield Academy’s third homer of the day, cutting the deficit to 3-1.

Jackson Academy threatened with a runner on third in the fourth. Crew Hassell ripped one to short for a leaping catch, but the throw to third was high, leading to another Raiders score to make it 4-1.

Raiders break it open

The faucet opened for Jackson Academy in the sixth. With a man on third, Tai Jones kissed one goodbye as the Raiders plated five runs in the inning to put the game away.

Final Score: Jackson Academy 10, Hartfield Academy 2

The Raiders will face Magnolia Heights in the semifinals next week.

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