LIBERTY – The LC-M Bears captured a 3-1 Game One victory over the Liberty Panthers in their best-of-three Class 4A Region III bidistrict playoff series at Liberty Thursday night.

Hits were hard to come by as both teams had strong pitching performances.

Anthony Bandiero got the win on the hill for the Bears (23-8) and Max Dileo nailed down yet another save in relief.

Taylor Gilbert had a hit for the Bears while Jordan Alexander scored two of the runs.

The Bears will return home Friday to welcome the Panthers (18-9) for Game Two at 5 p.m. at Gibbens Field with Game Three to follow if necessary.