Grossman's HR powers Warriors

MELROSE PARK -- A go-ahead home run by Ted Grossman in the top of the seventh put Westminster Christian ahead for good as it beat Private School League rival Walther Lutheran 4-3 in its league opener.

The game was the first meeting between the two since both went to the Class A state quarterfinals a year ago. The Warriors had never previously won on the road against Walther Lutheran, which took third in the state last year.

"It's huge," Westminster coach Jeff Moeller said. "We didn't play our best but it's a big win."

Ben Palmer (1-1) earned the win after coming on in relief of Brandon Siewert. Palmer pitched three scoreless innings and struck out five.

Carter Ward (2 RBIs), Tyler Beachler (RBI), Palmer (2-for-3) and Casey Schuring (2-for-4) also provided a lift offensively for the Warriors (7-3-1, 1-0 PSL).