GALLIPOLIS — Now that’s how to start a season.

Fairland’s Sashe Burcham and Gallipolis’ Amy Noe hooked up in a pitcher’s duel to start the softball season.

Each threw a five-hitter but Burcham came away with the win as Fairland slipped past Gallipolis 2-1.

Burcham struck out 10 while Noe fanned three and walked one.

Fairland got both its runs in the second inning.

Amber Bias singled, Stormie Spitzer had a sacrifice and Hallie Woodall doubled home Bias. Chelsea Stavely had a two-out double to score Woodall with what proved to be the winning run.

Heather Ward and Alli Saunders doubled for the Blue Angels’ run in the bottom of the second.

Keri Pinkerman also had base his for Fairland.

Fairland 020 000 0 = 2 5 2

Gallipolis 010 000 0 = 1 5 3

WP-Sashe Burcham. LP-Amy Noe.