Higashi Nihon Dai Shōhei secured their first-ever Koshien victory on Saturday, beating Shirakaba Gakuen 2-1, according to 読売新聞 and 福島民報デジタル. The win came after a decisive hit by Iriga-chō and a complete-game pitching effort by Terunuma.
Before the game, roughly 20 members and alumni of the school's hula dance club performed an elegant routine in the stands to support the baseball team, 読売新聞 reports. The dancers said they hoped their performance would help players relax ahead of the match.
The game itself featured a notable moment in the fourth inning when a pickoff attempt was overturned following video review, according to 日刊スポーツ. Shirakaba Gakuen captain Murahashi contributed on both offense and defense, but his team ultimately fell short.
The victory marks a milestone for Higashi Nihon Dai Shōhei, who had not previously won a game at the national tournament. The hula performance added a distinctive touch to the team's debut appearance.
With the first win secured, Higashi Nihon Dai Shōhei will look to build momentum in their next Koshien matchup.
