The Thunder Bay Border Cats (4-7)'s seven first-inning runs built an early lead that helped bring home a 7-5 win over the Willmar Stingers (4-7) on Saturday at Subway Field.

The Thunder Bay Border Cats would not relinquish the lead as the Willmar Stingers were unable to weather a seven-run first inning deficit.

The Willmar Stingers scored on a steal of home by Gregory Fettes in the third inning, a groundout by Michael Suchy in the sixth inning, a solo home run by Steve Talbott in the seventh inning, and a fielder's choice in the eighth inning. Despite their efforts, the Willmar Stingers couldn't finish the comeback.

Brett Kay put himself in scoring position with two extra-base hits for the Thunder Bay Border Cats. He doubled in the first and sixth innings.

Dan Ludwig's eight strikeouts were enough to push the Thunder Bay Border Cats past the Willmar Stingers. Ludwig allowed two earned runs, four hits and three walks over six innings.

Anthony Consiglio was charged with his first loss of the year. He allowed seven runs in one-third of an inning, walked two and struck out none.