Bethlehem Catholic’s run in the PIAA baseball tournament came to an end Monday afternoon when the Hawks fell to Holy Ghost Prep 5-3 in the opening round of the 4A tournament.

The Hawks fell behind 3-0 in the first two innings and 5-1 heading into the seventh, but their late rally wasn’t enough to salvage their season.

“The mindset of the team was calm and relaxed coming into the game,” said Becahi head coach Matt Corsi. “I think our season prepared us well for this game. We have seen the best pitchers throughout the year. Today just wasn’t our day.”

Becahi starting pitcher Chaise Albus struggled out of the gate, giving up three early runs. Holy Ghost’s Jack McDermott had himself a day, going 4-for-4, with an RBI, two runs and two stolen bases.

The Hawks tried to work their way back into the game in the seventh when Anthony Martinez knocked in a sac fly run followed by a Gavin Kirsch single to make it 5-3. That would be the end of the drama, as Matt Long recorded the final out for Prep (15-8), as they move on to the quarterfinals to play District 12 champion Bonner-Prendergast.

While the Hawks (16-9) season came to a close, it was an memorable season of getting back into the EPC playoffs and winning their first district title since 2006 in Corsi’s first year at the helm.

“The biggest two things I have said to them is enjoy the ride,” said Corsi. “This doesn’t happen every year and at this point any game could be your last.”