The Thorsby Rebels broke even in the state quarterfinals Friday against No. 3 Lexington, winning the first game 4-2 and losing the second 9-4.

Thorsby coach Ab Argent said the team pitched well and played good defense in Game 1 as the Rebels faced lefty Kenneth Ratliff. Ratliff was one of the challenges the Rebels had trained for in preparation for the best-of-three series.

But it was a different story in Game 2.

“We knew it would be tough,” Argent said. “We will give them credit. They’re a good team, but we didn’t play well (in Game 2).”

He was glad to see between 100 and 200 fans make the trip to Lauderdale County, which borders Tennessee, to support their Rebels.

“We had a lot of support. It was a good atmosphere for high school baseball tonight,” Argent said.

Game 3 will be played Saturday at 11 a.m. in Lexington. The time of the game was moved up to try to avoid any possible rain.

If the Rebels win, they will face the winner of Mars Hill and Westbrook Christian in the semifinals.

“Basically, it’s a one-game season now,” Argent said. “Even though we split, we still put ourselves in a good position.”