The Latta Vikings got five hits and five runs as they defeated Green Sea-Floyds 5-1 to advance in the Lower State finals.

The Vikings scored one run each in the second and third innings and added another three in the sixth for the win. The Trojans got their only run in the seventh inning. Green Sea-Floyds had four hits in the loss.

Latta’s J.R. Rich was the winning pitcher, going all seven innings for only four hits and one run. He walked two and struck out seven, allowing no earned runs.

The losing pitcher was Chris Caines, who pitched six innings for four hits, five runs, three earned runs, and three walks, striking out six.

Latta’s leading hitters included River Owens, 2-for-4; Matt Rogers, 1-for-3; and Donell Stanley, 1-for-3 with a double.

Latta’s record improved to 16-6 overall as they headed into Wednesday night’s game against Bamberg-Ehrhardt. The winner of Wednesday night’s game will move on to face Lake View for the Lower State title on Friday, May 13, at 5:30 p.m. in Lake View.