Riverland Community College used a big first inning and a late-game rally to secure a 7-6 win over Alexandria Technical & Community College on March 20.

The Blue Devils came out swinging, plating five runs in the top of the first inning. Freshman outfielder Hideki Ohira highlighted the frame with a three-RBI double, while sophomore outfielder Roland Figueroa (Ponce, PR) followed with a two-run home run to give Riverland an early 5-0 lead.

Alexandria responded in the bottom half of the inning, taking advantage of walks and timely hitting to score six runs and move in front 6-5 after one.

After the explosive opening inning, both teams settled into a defensive battle. Riverland pitching held Alexandria scoreless over the final six innings, giving the offense an opportunity to respond late.

That response came in the seventh inning, as Riverland showed patience at the plate and capitalized on free passes to push across two runs and reclaim a 7-6 lead.

Despite recording just three hits, Riverland made the most of its opportunities, drawing nine walks and delivering in key moments. Ohira finished with a team-high four RBIs, while Figueroa added two RBIs and collected two of the team's three hits.

Sophomore pitcher Melvin Ortiz (Lajas, PR) earned the start on the mound, working six innings, while Khalil Fernandez closed the door with a scoreless inning of relief.

Alexandria finished with 10 hits in the contest, but Riverland's pitching staff limited damage after the first inning to secure the victory.