ROPER – Bertie Middle School claimed a 15-3 victory over Washington County Union in the season opener for both schools.

After a shaky start, in which they gave up three unearned runs in the first inning, the Phoenix roared back to take the victory.

Marquis Holley led the charge with a 2-for-3 including a double off the fence. Alex Harmon was 2-for-3 for Bertie Middle while Matthew Barnes was 2-for-3 with a triple.

Eighth grader Javier Pagola allowed no earned runs and struck out 12 to help the Phoenix to the victory.

Bertie Middle improved to 1-0.