In a closely contested game, the Panthers narrowly lost to the Mt. Pulaski Hilltoppers with a final score of 5-3. The highlight of the match came in the bottom of the fourth inning when Delavan mounted an exciting rally, scoring three runs. Bryson Horning, number 22, was poised on third base, ready to tie the game.

However, controversy struck when Hilltoppers' pitcher Luke Martin, number 33, made what appeared to be a balk during a pick-off attempt. This move prompted Horning to dash for home, only to be thrown out, a call that Panthers Head Coach Dillon Hodges questioned the call. Unfortunately for Delavan, the umpire upheld the decision, halting the Panthers' momentum and ending the inning.

Adding to Delavan's frustration, the same umpire called a balk on Panthers' pitcher Corie Green, number 11, in the top of the fifth inning, which allowed the Hilltoppers to score their final run.

Green showcased his prowess on the mound, pitching six innings, facing twenty-seven batters, allowing five hits and five runs, striking out five, and walking three. Relief pitcher Corbin Soldal, number 18, took over in the seventh inning, facing four batters, giving up no hits or runs, striking out two, and walking one.

The Panthers will look to rebound in their upcoming home game against El Paso-Gridley, scheduled for 10:00 AM on Saturday.