Northstars snuff the Sparkies in season opener

The Havre Northstars opened their season in Great Falls on Sunday, crushing the Great Falls Sparkies in two five-inning games.

The Northstars brought their bats and were ready to hit, scoring a combined 45 runs in the two games. The Northstars won the opener 29-1 and won the second game 16-4.

Ben Mader got the win in the opener, giving up the lone run to the Sparkies in two innings of work.

Tyler Thompson pitched the next two innings, with Cory Junck finishing out the final inning.

Ian Spencer, one of the many players who participated in the Havre invitational tournaments Saturday, led the team with a 5-for-5 effort.

Spencer pitched the first two innings of the second game, giving up three runs. For his efforts, Spencer got the win.

Doug Ireland relieved Spencer and pitched the next two innings. Ireland held the Sparkies scoreless in his two innings of work. Eric Lipp closed out the game, giving up one unearned run in the fifth inning.

The Northstars face off with hometown rival the Comets on Sunday at Legion Field. The Northstars and Comets are scheduled to play one nine- inning game beginning at 1 p.m.