VALLEY CITY, N.D. — After earning their first win of the season earlier in the week against Grand Forks Central, the Valley City Hi-Liners returned home Friday looking to build momentum against Devils Lake. However, the Firebirds swept the doubleheader, handing Valley City 12-4 and 16-1 losses.

In Game 1, the Hi-Liners had early opportunities, putting runners in scoring position in both the first and second innings. But the clutch hit eluded them, while Devils Lake capitalized with a five-run third inning to take control. Firebirds starter Ben Larson was given more than enough support and went the distance for the win.

Valley City’s offensive highlights included Andrew Sykora, who recorded a double, a triple, and an RBI, while Jack Samuelson reached base three times with two singles and a walk. Despite those efforts, the Hi-Liners dropped the opener 12-4.

Game 2 was all Devils Lake from the start. The Firebirds jumped out to a double-digit lead by the third inning and held a commanding 16-0 advantage entering the bottom of the fifth. Corbyn Powell drove in Valley City’s only run with a two-out single, but that was all the offense the Hi-Liners could muster in a 16-1 defeat.

Valley City (1-13) will look to regroup on Monday, May 12, when they host West Fargo Sheyenne in a doubleheader scheduled for 4:30 and 6:30 p.m.