Will Varner followed a 17-strikeout performance in a win Saturday over Hancock County, Tenn. with a 13-strikeout night Thursday as Harlan (6-6) opened its district schedule with a 6-2 win at Bell County.

The senior right-hander gave up two runs (one earned) on six hits with 13 strikeouts and two walks to even his record at 2-2.

Kilian Ledford led the Harlan offense with two singles. Josh Knuckles had a double. Varner, Evan Browning and Michael Robinson added one single each.

James Smith had two singles for Bell County (4-6). Antonio Zachary, London Stephney, D.J. Estes and Cole Hoskins added one single each.

Smith allowed four runs on four hits in four innings on the mound, striking out six and walking four. Hayden Clark allowed two runs on two hits in three innings, with one strikeout and three walks.

The two teams met again Friday at Harlan.

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Harlan 201 021 0 — 6. 6. 2

Bell County 000 010 1 — 2. 6. 1

Varner and Knuckles; Smith, Clark (5) and Hoskins. WP — Varner (2-2). LP — Smith.