The Hays Larks begin their season-opening nine-game homestand 2-2 following a 6-3 loss to the Denver Cougars Monday night.

Denver’s Eli Thornquist throws a complete game four-hitter to lead the Cougars to their first win of the season after starting 0-5. Thornquist struck out four and walked two and retired the final 10 Larks batters after Hays rallied with three in the sixth.

Denver scored two in the second inning and four in the third highlighted by Michael Dunnebecke’s three-run homer.

The Larks used an error, a single from Corky Welch (Delta State) and double from Garrett McKinzie (Emporia State) to score three in the sixth.

North Lake [TX] Community College product and UT-Arlington signee Dan Hawk gives up all six runs on six hits over five innings and takes the loss.

The Larks and Cougars close out the series tonight at 7 pm. Admission is free courtesy of Wal-Mart and Dr. Hattan Family Eye Care.