The Loyd Star Hornets fell to the Franklin County Bulldogs 9-3 in the nightcap of Loyd Star’s classic tournament Saturday.

“Our defense had another poor showing behind our pitchers,” said Loyd Star coach Jared Britt. “We also did not execute in some key situations on offense. We must regroup and work on our fundamentals to prepare for Thursday’s contest.

The Hornets (0-2) will resume action Thursday as they host the Wesson Cobras for the opening round of the Lincoln County baseball invitational tournament at Loyd Star, beginning at 5 p.m.

Franklin Co. 9, Loyd Star 3 

The Bulldogs came out strong in the first five innings to capture a 5-0 lead, before the Hornets managed to score their first run in the bottom of the fifth.

Franklin County added four more run in the sixth inning. Loyd Star added one run each in the bottom of the sixth and seventh innings.

Jake McDaniel was the winning pitcher for the Bulldogs with four strikeouts and three walks.

Parker Flowers suffered the setback on the mound for the Hornets with three strikeouts and six walks.

Logan Murray was the top hitter at the plate for Loyd Star with a double and a single. James Beard, Lane Rogers, Tucker Watts and Flowers hit safely.

Dematre Collins powered the Bulldogs with a two-run homerun and a single. Dalivan Hunt ripped a double. Hitting safely were Will Moffett, Antonio Christmas and Chase Freeman.