On Wednesday, the Copperheads were up 8-2 heading into the ninth before giving up seven runs to cost them the game.

On Thursday, Southern Ohio did not give Cincinnati that chance again and completely shut them down on route to victory.

First Baseman Chris Gambert knew the team was focused not to have a repeat of Wednesday’s performance.

“It was a tough loss,” Gambert said. “ We all had a little extra motive to come out today and really put it to (Cincinnati). It was kind of different today when we got that lead. It was cutthroat… We were trying to put them away and not let that happen again.”

The Copperheads (4-5) did not let that happen again, as they secured a 9-1 victory over the Steam (4-5).

The win not only secures the first series win on the season for Southern Ohio, but also gives Coach Austin Dunfee his first series win as a head coach. While Dunfee was very excited to secure the milestone in his career, he had nothing but nice things to say about the opponent.

“Cincinnati has a really good ball club,” Dunfee said. “It’s exciting to see what these guys are gonna be able to do for the rest of the season.”

Thursday’s game was Southern Ohio’s third in a row scoring at least six points and the team had many contributors that brought on the win. Leading the way was Chris Gambert, who went 2-4 with a three-run home run in the fifth and four RBIs overall.

Sebastian Fabik continued his tear to open the season as well, going 3-4 with two RBIs and a double in the game. Fabik is currently third in the league in batting average in the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League.

Dunfee has been waiting for the offense to get in a rhythm after the expected slump to start the season and it looks like they may finally finding their stride.

“This is about the time of the year those guys start to really figure their swings out and understand the zone,” he said. “They’ve been red-hot this last week and it’s impressive to see.”

One thing that has been consistent all season so far for Southern Ohio is the pitching, as the pitching staff is currently second in the GLSCL in ERA, and the game against the Steam was no exception.

Sam Wirsing got the start for the Copperheads and provided another gem for the team, throwing six innings while only giving up one run on three hits and striking out a season high nine hitters.

Braxton Kelly came in for the final three innings and he gave up no runs on three hits and struck out two. He was also credited with the save.

The Copperheads are on the road Friday to start a new series with the Hamilton Joes (6-3). First pitch at Foundation Field is scheduled at 7:05 p.m.