Norwalk - In a contest defined by missed opportunities and a resilient late-inning push, the Columbian Junior Varsity squad fell just short on Wednesday, dropping a 4-3 decision to Norwalk despite out-hitting their hosts.

Norwalk wasted no time seizing the momentum, jumping out to an early lead in the bottom of the first inning. Following a base hit and a costly Columbian error, the home team managed to plate two early runs. The deficit grew to 4-0 in the second inning after a fielder's choice allowed another runner to cross the plate, putting Columbian in a significant early hole.

Brahm Bolen took the mound for Columbian and provided a gritty performance to keep his team in the hunt. Over six innings of work, Bolen surrendered only four hits and four runs—just one of which was earned. He showed impressive command under pressure, racking up six strikeouts while navigating five walks to hold the Norwalk offense scoreless through the final four frames.

Sparked by Bolen’s stability on the hill, the Columbian offense began to chip away at the lead. The comeback was fueled by aggressive play on the base paths and timely contact. Columbian managed to close the gap to a single run through a combination of a productive ground out, an RBI double, and a daring steal of home.

Ayden Yoshimoto was a constant threat throughout the afternoon, leading the team with two hits and wreaking havoc on the bases with six stolen bases. Carter Everhart also turned in a perfect 1-for-1 performance at the plate, accounting for a crucial run batted in. As a team, Columbian recorded six hits and six stolen bases, showing plenty of life in the batter's box and on the dirt, though the final equalizer remained elusive.

Columbian will look to bounce back quickly as they return home on Thursday to host Clyde.