Atholton had scored 45 runs in three previous playoff games.

But with the Class 2A state title on the line yesterday, the 11th-ranked Raiders scored just five against top-seeded Elkton (17-5) and the Golden Elks won their first state title, 6-5, at Joe Cannon Stadium in Harmans.

In an error-packed game, third-seeded Atholton (16-8) failed to come up with a big inning despite nine hits, five walks, a hit batter and five Elkton errors. The Raiders stranded at least two base runners in every inning (15 total).

And the Raiders, playing in their first state championship game, suffered several crucial defensive lapses (four errors) that led to five unearned Elkton runs. Four of Atholton's runs also were unearned.

Atholton starting pitcher Shane Beaver (6-1) took his first loss of the season but pitched well enough to win. He allowed six hits, walked three and struck out four.