The Nanaimo NightOwls were one out away from extra innings, but came away empty after a double and base hit in the ninth inning on Saturday night.
The Portland Pickles escaped with a 3-2 win at Walker Stadium, the second loss for the NightOwls in as many nights in Oregon.
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Wylie Waters hit a two-run home run in sixth inning for the NightOwls, his second of the season.
Josh Torres had a strong start for the NightOwls, going five innings and giving up two unearned runs. Payton Robertson was strong in relief in three scoreless innings, giving up three hits, before Jake Fleury came in and pitched well but gave up the run that ended the game, taking the loss.
Riley Paulino was 2-4 and scored a run with other hits from David Draayers, Mikey Easter and Waters, his long ball.
The teams meet up again Sunday to complete the series, at 6pm in Portland. The NightOwls then have a travel day to rest up on Monday before the Kamloops NorthPaws arrive at Serauxmen Stadium on Tuesday for the start of a three-game set that continues Wednesday and Thursday, all 6:35pm start times.
