A three-run sixth inning propelled the Junction City Brigade to a 7-2 win over the Topeka Golden Giants in the first game of their Mid Plains League opening round best two-out-of three playoff series.

The teams met Tuesday night at Rathert Field. Game two is Wednesday night in Topeka.

Junction City got a solid pitching performance from Blake Grellhesl, who went five-and-two-thirds innings on the mound to get the win. Lane Fleming, Ben Ramberg, and Justin O’Laughlin came on in relief for Junction City.

The Brigade were aided by two home runs in the game. John Gardner hit a three-run homer in the sixth inning, and Bret Nickle tacked on a solo home run in the seventh for the Brigade.

Ethan Frazier pitched well for the Golden Giants, but took the loss.