Warren Central’s home non-conference 5-3 win over St. Aloysius Tuesday night was the perfect tune-up match to get them geared up for the playoffs while St. Aloysius prepares for a five-day break.

“It’s good for us to play a quality team to get us ready for the playoff. They’re well coached and they perform well in all aspects of the game,” said WCHS head coach Conner Douglas.

Despite the cool 46-degree temperature, WC pitcher Brooks Boolos brought the heat, striking out four batters. Carlisle Koestler added two strikeouts in relief for the Vikings (18-5, 7-2).

WC centerfielder Marcus Ragan led all hitters with three singles. WC first baseman Hunter Suimrall added a single and a double.

St. Al third baseman Patrick Murphy and pitcher Derek Dolan both picked up two hits each for the Flashes (10-8, 5-3).

Douglas was proud of his squad for ending a two-game losing streak and getting back on course.

“This was a good win. It got us back to the way we have been playing all year. It’s good to come out and play some good baseball,” said Douglas.

While the Vikings finish their division schedule tonight at Greenville-Weston High School, Warren Central is all but assured to finish second behind Clinton after the Arrows took the third game of the series Friday.

St. Aloysius will enjoy a brief hiatus this weekend before facing Northwest Rankin and Vicksburg on Monday, Vicksburg on Tuesday and Warren Central on April 26.

The MHSAA playoffs are set to begin May 1.