The Loyd Star Hornets kicked off the season Friday night hosting a baseball classic contest against the Columbia Wildcats and lost 12-7 in the opener.

The Hornets took an early 1-0 lead, but Columbia scored three runs in the second.

Both teams plated three runs in the third inning, and Columbia commanded a 6-3 lead. The Wildcats would add to their lead in the fifth and sixth innings to take a 12-6 advantage.

In the bottom of the seventh, the Hornets threatened to rally back after scoring one run, but the Wildcats’ defense would end those hopes by picking up the final two outs.

“Offense was playing well enough to win, but defense played sloppy at times which ended up costing us,” said Loyd Star coach Jared Britt.

Konner Allen suffered the setback on the mound for the Hornets with two strikeouts and three walks.

Parker Flowers led Loyd Star’s offense with a homerun, double and three RBIs. Konner Allen and Rucker Watts both hit doubles. Lane Rogers hit safely with two singles.

Peyton Carver was the winning pitcher for Columbia with three strikeouts and two walks. Logan McDowell and Trey Hobgood both hit a double and two singles. Scooter Ginn hit a homerun. Blake Broom provided a double. Nathan Foxworth hit safely with two singles.