Cougars exacted some early revenge on defending Tamworth Baseball competition champions Warriors with a three run win in their season opener on Saturday.
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Last years runners-up got the points 9-6 in a game that was scoreless until the third innings despite both sides having opportunities.
Cougars made their move in the fourth innings through free passes from the Warriors defence and timely hits, setting up a three run lead.
Despite strong base hits from Nathan Handsaker, Andres Bellow, Vali Orcher and Brad Redshaw, inconsistency from starting pitcher David Ardill on the mound cost Warriors runs.
“I’ve got to do a better job of finding the strike zone, and not digging the team into a hole early in the game.” Ardill said.
Coach Nathan Handsaker was pleased with their effort being down six of last years premiership team, but added that they have significant improvements to make.
Brock Ridgewell started on the mound for Cougars, throwing plenty of strikes and doing enough to stymie the Warriors offense.
He was relieved by Kris Bird, Cale Penrith and Scott Hurn, with Cougars showing their pitching depth early.
Warriors had earlier won a close B grade tussle 5-3.
Armidale Outlaws were comprehensive 26-2 winners over Gunnedah Giants in the other A grade game.
