WAYCROSS, GA - Ware County showed poise down the stretch Thursday night, rallying late to defeat Appling County 7-5 at Gator Field.
Appling County grabbed the early momentum, plating a run in the first inning to take a 1-0 lead. The Gators answered right away in the bottom half, as Slade Sweat came through with a two-out RBI single to even things up.
The back-and-forth continued into the second inning, with Appling County briefly regaining the lead before Ware County responded once again. Colt Cox delivered an RBI double, and Collin Crawford followed with a run-scoring single to push the Gators in front, 3-2. Ware County added to its advantage in the third, capitalizing on a defensive miscue to extend the lead to 4-2.
The Pirates battled back in the fifth inning, using timely execution to take a 5-4 lead. But the Gators stayed composed and answered immediately. Tanner Larisey lined a clutch RBI single to tie the game at 5-5 and shift the momentum back to the home side.
Ware County took control in the sixth inning. Seth Suess delivered the go-ahead RBI knock, and Landon Smallwood added an insurance run with a productive groundout to make it 7-5.
On the mound, Larisey earned the win in relief, providing three strong innings and limiting Appling County’s opportunities late. Ryder Kinnon got the start for Ware County, working through the middle innings and keeping the Gators within striking distance.
At the plate, Ware County totaled nine hits, with Sweat and Larisey each collecting two. The Gators also stayed aggressive on the bases, swiping five bags and consistently putting pressure on the Appling County defense.
Up Next
Ware County returns to Gator Field on Friday, April 3, 2026, to host Coffee for Senior Night. Festivities will begin at 5:40 PM, with first pitch scheduled for 6:00 PM.
Tickets are $7.00 and can be purchased online at GoFan.co or at the gate. Fans are reminded that Ware County enforces a Clear Bag Policy and a Parental Supervision Policy at all athletic venues.
