The Bulldogs best scoring chance came in the bottom of the sixth. With two outs, Beau Adams and Colton Fearday doubled. It was the only time in the game SAHS had two runners on base in an inning. But McDevitt then struck out the next batter to end the threat.

“My hat’s off to Josh. He pitched a heckuva game,” St. Anthony coach Tony Kreke said. “We had a chance in the sixth, but Josh turned it up a notch to get that third out.”

St. Anthony’s only other hit was a third-inning single by Connor Roepke. McDevitt retired the side in order in four of the seven innings.

Levitt took the loss, despite his strong effort. He allowed five hits and four runs, while walking one and striking out seven.

“This is the type of game that helps prepare us for the postseason,” Kreke noted. “But now we need to be resilient and bounce back. We can’t hang our heads. We’ve got to come back out and play ball.”

Both coaches like the City Series.

“It’s huge for both schools,” McNeely said. “It might be the three most stressful nights of the season for the coaches, but the kids love it. It’s a great experience.”

“It’s a great atmosphere and fun for the community,” Kreke added. “I think all the kids like being a part of this series.”

The Hearts improved to 13-10, while St. Anthony dropped to 16-7. Game #2 of the City Series will be tonight (Thursday) at Evergreen Hollow Park. Game time is 7 p.m.

The series finale will be Friday night back at Paul Smith Field.