BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – The Bluefield Rams were unable to overcome a mid-game surge from Spartanburg Methodist, falling 6–3 in Friday's series opener at Bowen Field.

Spartanburg Methodist struck first ,taking a 2–0 lead. The visitors extended their advantage in the sixth to make it 5–0.

Bluefield began its comeback push late in the game. In the eighth inning, Nick Stergiou reached base before Josh Holland was hit by a pitch, setting up Jordan Ramsey for a two-RBI double to cut the deficit to 5–2.

Spartanburg Methodist added an insurance run in the ninth on a wild pitch, but the Rams answered in the bottom half. Chris Johnson doubled to start the inning and later scored on a sacrifice fly from Cody Crafton to bring the score to 6–3.

Ramsey led the Rams offensively with two hits and two RBIs, while Johnson added a double and scored a run. Stergiou and Sean Cherry each recorded hits as Bluefield finished with six total hits.

Ryan Cowell took the loss after allowing five runs across seven innings. Jaden Rose worked two innings in relief, allowing one run.

The Rams return to action Saturday for Games two and three of the series against Spartanburg Methodist, with first pitch set for 5 p.m. at Bowen Field.