The Statesville Owls (9-7) jumped out to an early lead, but were unable to hold on and lost 3-1 to the Ballantyne Smokies (10-5) on Friday.

An error gave the Ballantyne Smokies the lead in the sixth inning.

The Ballantyne Smokies were led by a flawless day at the dish by Derek Croxton, who went 3-3 against the Statesville Owls' pitching. He singled in the first, fourth, and sixth innings.

The Statesville Owls had no answer for Nate Blaylock, who kept runners off the basepaths in his appearance. Blaylock held the Statesville Owls hitless over two innings, allowed no earned runs, walked none and struck out three.

Clint Howell was charged with his second loss of the year. He lasted just five innings, walked one, struck out four, and allowed three runs.