The Junction City Blues lost a five run lead, but rallied for three runs in their final at bat in the seventh inning to defeat Riley County 11-9 in American Legion baseball at Rathert Field Thursday night.

The win came in the opening round of pool play in the Post 45 Invitational.

Blues coach Derek Scott noted leadoff hitter Dylan Collette walked to start the seventh for Junction City. “Bobby Khoury and Christian Ozores had a couple good hits to get us on the board there.”

Junction City will play Paola in the tournament Friday evening.

The other first round game in the tournament Thursday night saw Manhattan defeat Alma-Wabaunsee 11-1.