Three-run seventh inning keys Kane County Cougars victory

The Kane County Cougars (35-31) broke through with three runs in the seventh inning to defeat the Sioux Falls Canaries (36-31) by a 3-1 final Saturday night at Northwestern Medicine Field in Geneva, securing the series victory behind another outstanding effort from the pitching staff.

TJ Sikkema continued his strong start to life with the Cougars, allowing just two hits and one run over five innings while striking out a season-high eight. The left-hander retired the side in order three times and struck out four consecutive batters during one dominant stretch before exiting with Kane County trailing 1-0.

The Canaries scored their only run in the third inning after back-to-back singles by Joe Vos and Scott Combs put runners on the corners. A passed ball allowed Vos to cross the plate for the game's first run.

Sioux Falls starter Chase Gearing matched Sikkema nearly pitch for pitch, holding the Cougars scoreless through six innings while allowing just three hits and striking out five.