BY STACY GILL/EDITOR

Despite valiant efforts by the three consecutive 4-4A state champions, the Broncos suffered a devastating loss in the second-round of the Regional playoffs at home against the West Monroe Rebels on Monday, May 10.

Heartbreaking on so many levels, the eighth-seeded Broncos experienced, and for the seniors, a first-time ever defeat in the state baseball playoffs.

The Broncos broke their post-game huddle with sadness and tears in front of a large Zachary cheering section of fans, family and friends.

After moving up to the 5-5A class this season, it looked as though a fourth-straight title was in reach after ZHS beat Catholic 8 - 3 for the district championship.

However, the Broncos gave the Rebels three runs on Monday night- allowing one early on and two in the top of the third.

Starter Taylor Guilbeau eventually found his stride with five strikeouts allowing only three hits from the Rebels in the final four innings.

The Broncos rallied hard in the fourth with Almann Snowden knocking a double to left allowing Riley White to score from second.

Next up was Bond Babin who hit a grounder for Snowden to score at home, bringing the score up 3 -2.

The fifth-inning looked like a possible Bronco comeback, but exceptional plays from two Rebels in center and right halted Zachary.

A final gut-wrenching effort in the seventh, had hits from seniors Joe Martin and Hosea Anderson and sophomore Gabe VonRosenberg, with the final out coming against senior Ryan Manuel.

"It just wasn't our day," said Head Coach Jesse Cassard, summing up an awesome season.