Tiffin - The Columbian Tornadoes broke open a tight game late and pulled away for an 11-3 victory over the Sandusky Blue Streaks Friday at home, using a five-run sixth inning to turn a competitive matchup into a convincing win.

Sandusky grabbed the early advantage in the top of the first inning, capitalizing on a Columbian error to push across the game’s first run.

Columbian answered in the bottom of the third, taking its first lead of the afternoon. Johnny Bremyer brought in a run on a groundout, and another Tornado run scored on a Sandusky miscue to put the hosts in front 2-1.

The Tornadoes continued to add on before delivering the knockout blow in the sixth. Columbian erupted for five runs on five hits in the inning, highlighted by a two-run single from Kael Lawrence, a two-run double from Kyle Hepp, and an RBI single by Ayden Yoshimoto.

Hepp was just as effective on the mound as he was at the plate, earning the win after working six strong innings. He allowed four hits and two runs, only one earned, while striking out eight and walking four. Max Hoyda came on in relief to close things out.

At the plate, Columbian pounded out 11 hits. Hepp led the offense with three RBIs while going 2-for-4. Yoshimoto, Braden Egbert, Lawrence, and Hepp each collected two hits. Bremyer also made his presence felt on the bases with two stolen bases as the Tornadoes swiped five bags as a team.

With the win, Columbian heads into the Sectional Tournament with momentum as they travel to Lexington on Tuesday.