In one of the most anticipated matchups of the season, Dunedin knocked off nationally ranked and previously undefeated Jesuit 1-0 in an unconventional way. 

Despite being no-hit, the Falcons were able to manufacture the game’s only run when Jacob Riegel came home on a balk in the sixth inning. 

This was the first time the teams had met since the Class 6A state title game that the Tigers won 4-3 in 2019. 

Jesuit, the defending 5A state champion, entered Thursday’s matchup with a perfect record (14-0) and was ranked No. 2 nationally by MaxPreps. 

Dunedin, which reached the 4A state semifinals for the second straight season last year, had plenty of confidence – and momentum. The Falcons, ranked No. 4 in its class, had won 10 straight games. 

Runs were precious thanks to the pitching performances from both teams. 

The Tigers’ John Abraham and Dunedin’s Trey Beard were locked in a duel for most of the night. Abraham ended up throwing a no-hitter but took the loss on the balk. 

Beard threw 4 ⅔ scoreless, no-hit innings and recorded 12 strikeouts. Riegal came in relief, allowing one hit the rest of the way. 

In the sixth inning, Riegel reached on a walk, advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt and moved to third on a fielder’s choice to set up the game’s only run.