Many experts will say pitching is the name of the game.

And so far this season, Effingham is proving to have plenty of it.

It was Kalen Reardon’s turn Thursday. He pitched six strong innings to help the Hearts come away with a 2-1 decision at Newton.

Reardon allowed only five hits, while walking two and striking out six during his 97-pitch performance. Jack Blickem pitched the seventh to earn the save.

Jackson Lee belted a solo home run in the top of the first to stake EHS to a quick 1-0 lead. Newton tied the game with a tally in the bottom of the third.

It stayed a 1-1 game until the sixth. An error, a walk and a base hit by Joe Matteson loaded the bases for the Hearts. The winning run scored when Quest Hull was hit by a pitch.

Newton had a chance to tie the game in the seventh. Mason Schafer reached on an error and ended up at second base. Ben Meinhart followed with a base hit. Schafer tried to score on the play, but Effingham centerfielder Christian Raddatz threw him out at the plate. Blickem then got the next two outs to secure the victory.

Schafer also pitched a strong game for the Eagles, allowing just five hits and one earned run. He walked three and struck out nine. Blickem had two of Effingham’s hits.

The Hearts, now 4-0, will open Apollo Conference play at home Saturday against Lincoln. The first pitch is scheduled for 11 a.m.